Walkers
WALKERS
Mobility issues are common among the elderly and those who suffer from a certain injury, medical condition or orthopedic problems. When walking becomes a challenge, you or your loved one may benefit from the aid of a bariatric walker. A walker is designed to aid you while you walk so that you can stay active. Whether you need help maneuvering safely about your home or assistance walking while out and about, you’ll find the perfect bariatric walker at CSA Medical Supply.
CHOOSING A WALKER:
Choosing a walker starts with understanding your condition and what you primarily need it for. If you have sustained an injury, broken leg or suffer from ulcers, you may want to consider a knee walker. Knee walkers are a great substitute for crutches to give you better mobility compared to bulky crutches which can be hard to use and unstable. For long term or permanent needs for a walking aid, a standard walker, wheeled walker or a specialty walker that meets your specific needs may be your choice. For travel and outings, a travel walker that folds to half the size of a standard walker can be a more efficient answer to your mobility issues.
WALKER BUYING GUIDE:
Before reviewing the features and making a purchase for you or your loved one, learn about the various types of walkers available to you, and their accessories:
A standard walker is a 4-legged device that is used for balance and a walking aid for those who are unsteady or weak when it comes to their mobility. It should stand about waist high, is typically constructed of a light weight material such as aluminum for easy maneuvering and has to be lifted and moved with each step. A regular walker usually accommodates a person up to 350 pounds.
A bariatric walker or bariatric rolling walker is typically designed with two wheels up front and to aid those who are overweight or obese and cannot use another device for walking. They are easier to glide along the floor for easier movement. While a standard walker can accommodate up to 350 pounds, a bariatric walker can typically support up to 600 pounds.
Wheeled walkers are designed with wheels for easier gliding movement when walking and does not require you to lift and scoot. If you have more severe balance or walking issues, the gliding motion of the wheels make walking and weight bearing easier.
Knee walkers are designed with a cushion for the knee to rest on while you push the walker. This walker is typically preferred by patients with an injury to the lower leg, in a cast, or perhaps who suffer with ulcers and find it painful to use the leg.
Specialty walkers are designed for people with severely poor posture and cannot stand well or long periods of time, or for someone who can hardly walk at all. A rollator walker is a three or four-wheeled walker with a seat and perhaps a basket for your belongings and is typically used to get from one point to another with as limited effort as possible.
You can get different accessories for your walker to make your mobilization and use of a walker, easier. Baskets that hang on the front are a common accessory that is used to carry your belongings in. Tennis balls are often purchased to fit over the rubber stoppers on the back legs for easier shuffling and to prevent scuff markets on your floors. Walker extension legs and extra walker tips are also available at CSA Medical Supply.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF WALKERS:
Walkers come with many different features to fit your needs or condition. Some of the most common features available in a walker that you can choose from, include:
- Adjustable height
- Easy-to-push folding buttons
- Light weight construction for easier lifting and maneuvering
- Smaller walkers for travel
- Multiple types of walkers to choose from to fit your specific needs
- Accessories available to make your walker more comfortable and convenient
ARE WALKERS COVERED BY INSURANCE?
Most medical equipment are covered by insurance. If you have a medical condition that requires the need for a walker, your insurance will cover it for both rental or purchase. Some insurances may have certain restrictions in regards to medical equipment so you will want to check with your insurance provider to see what your benefits for durable medical equipment are. At CSA Medical Supply, we are happy to file a insurance claim upon your behalf and we are currently accepting Florida Medicaid.