Walkers are a huge help to the elderly and disabled, and they assist millions of people in getting around safely each year. But did you know that using a walker improperly can lead to a fall as well? In fact, the National Center for Injury Prevention states that up to 47,300 people each year over 65 go to the ER due to a fall with a walking aid so they hurt they knees or maybe they shoulders and after need a cuff surgery, although there are exercises they can follow for an early recovery as this 5 Great Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery Exercises which are necessary for every patient. And walking with a walker is much more likely to cause a fall than a cane.
Women in their 70s and 80s have a higher risk of tripping when they use a walker, and this can cause a fracture, bruise or sprain. Also, more women than men use walkers, and they frequently are weaker and have less ability to bear weight than men. Most accidents with walkers happen at home, and about 1/3 of accidents with walkers each year occurred when the person was walking.
To ensure that you use your walker safely, the Mayo Clinic recommends the following:
If you follow these tips. you will be able to move safely with your walker. Also, consider adding on some of the helpful walker accessories below: