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You’re not alone if you’re a senior considering a walker to be more mobile. These days, about one in four adults over 65 are now using a mobility device. Selecting a walker could be very helpful and even prevent lower back pains.
Correctly using a walker shouldn’t cause someone back pain. Instead, most walkers help relieve back pain over walking with a cane. They allow you to maintain balance and good posture and keep you from falling, which could injure your back. You can support up to half your weight with some walkers.
This article will explore the different types of walkers to evaluate your options better. There are some misconceptions about walkers and canes and which one might be best to prevent injury to your back muscles.
How Walkers Can Impact Your Back
You might wonder whether a cane or a walker is the right choice, especially if you have back issues. Let’s start by sharing some facts about both.
When Do I Need a Walker Instead of a Cane?
Approximately 4.8 million Americans rely on walkers. Walkers provide the greatest support, and are the aid of choice for 1.8 million citizens. This is especially true if your balance isn’t what it used to be. You can learn more about the signs that older individuals may need a walker in my complete guide on the topic. 13 Signs It’s Time for the Elderly to Use a Walker
The fact is that canes are not as stable as walkers. If used for hours each day, some waist, hip, and back pain are likely to occur. With walkers, this is less likely. With a comprehensive assessment by your physician or physical therapist, you’ll be able to gauge your physical strength and agility to make the right choice.
If you think about it, your entire body is part of the equation. It’s essential to understand the strength in your arms, wrists, legs, and back when deciding on a mobility device.
Physical Back Strength
Speaking of strength, a walker can also be a good option if you’re experiencing muscle weakness, whether it be in your arms, legs, or especially your back.
Back strength can vary from person to person and is particularly dependent on your age and overall physical and health condition. Many find they need the stable support that a walker can provide. Naturally, you’ll need some upper body strength to use any walker.
Professor Barbara Resnick at the University of Maryland School of Nursing agrees. She says, “The decision on the type of walker a person obtains may have to do with their upper extremity strength and ability, the location in which they will be using it, and personal preference.”
Back pain is a normal part of the aging process. According to Alexis Tingan, MD at Penn Medicine, “Aches and pains in the spine are just facts of life.” He goes on to cite research showing that up to 85% of people will experience back or neck pain.
Why Walkers Can Cause Back Pain
Incorrect use of walkers can result in back strain. Manufacturers can’t customize their walkers for each individual, so they need to be adjusted. You’ll risk hunching over if you don’t allow for the right height.
Unfortunately, people misuse their walkers. Some walk too far behind versus inside them, which leads to poor posture and leaning forward rather than standing upright with arms slightly bent.
Here’s a video that demonstrates the correct use of a walker:
Choosing the Right Walker
You may be surprised at how much walker designs vary and how many options there are on the market. Below you’ll see some basics about types of walkers and where to find them.
Types of Walkers
With your age, physical condition, and living situation in mind, let’s look at the types of walkers and features which might work best for you.
- Standard walker: This is a nice choice if you’ve got energy to spare but don’t plan to walk much. It’s also one of the more inexpensive types of walkers. It has no wheels, just four legs, and you’re responsible for picking it up and moving it as you move along. The standard walker is incredibly sturdy and well-balanced. Drive Medical 10200-1 Deluxe 2-Button Folding Walker, Silver (available on Amazon)
- Two-wheel walker: The two-wheel walker shares a similar design with the standard walker. However, it swaps out the front set of legs for wheels, making it easier to move. More people use this walker than any of the other options because it isn’t as cumbersome to move. Instead of picking it off the ground completely, the user can slide it along, only lifting the back legs up as necessary. Drive Medical 10210-1 Deluxe 2-Button Folding Walker with Wheels (available on Amazon)
- Three-wheel walker: Picture the three-wheel walker as a tricycle and a walker hybrid. It’s one of the easiest walkers to move but sacrifices some stability. Carex 3 Wheel Walker for Seniors, Foldable, Rollator Walker with Three Wheels, Trio Walker with Height Adjustable Handles (available on Amazon)
- Four-wheel walker: Four-wheel walkers are a more expensive model. Some even come with seats. They roll easily, at a decent pace, and are suitable for rougher terrain than the other walkers. Users can’t take them off-roading or anything, but they can use them outdoors on concrete, sidewalks, and other less-than-smooth surfaces. Goplus Walkers for Seniors, 4-in-1 Folding Walker with 5’’ Wheels, Detachable Seat, Height Adjustable Stand Up Walker, Medical Walking Mobility Aid, 350lbs Rolling Walker for Adult Bariatric Handicap (Available on Amazon)
- Rollators: These four-wheel devices help maintain an upright posture, promoting a natural gait, with vertical handle brakes that relieve stress on arms and joints. Some come with seats. Medline Rollator Walker with Seat, Steel Rolling Walker with 6-inch Wheels Supports up to 350 lbs, Medical Walker, Burgundy (Available on Amazon)
Finding the Right Alignment
Once you choose a walker, adjust it to fit. The goal is to ensure your walker matches your height, especially if you are tall or short.
- Stand inside (not too far in front) of the walker.
- Place both hands on the handle grips, relaxing your shoulders.
- Check your elbows; they should form a 15-degree angle.
- Relax both arms at your sides and align grips with the crease inside of your wrists.
It would be best to stand upright and not lean, especially moving forward. Your objective will be to maintain your position inside the walker as you step forward. Try out different walkers until you find the best design.
I’ve written a complete guide about whether walkers need to be fitted. Read it to learn more. Do Walkers Need to Be Fitted? What You Need to Know
Conclusion
Using a walker won’t necessarily cause you to experience back pain. Selecting the correct walker and using it correctly can avoid stress and strain on your joints and spine. Keep these three things in mind:
- Be realistic about your physical strength
- Select the appropriate walker type and design
- Learn the proper way to use your walker to prevent back pain
The bottom line is that walkers can help seniors be more mobile. Walkers can even prevent future lower back injuries resulting from an excessive amount of time sitting instead of walking.
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