O/O By Walsh's Pharmacy Limited
147 George St., Arthur, Ontario, Canada 1-519-848-2530

Mobility

Canes
Quad Canes
Crutches
Forearm Crutches
Walkers
Rollators
Wheelchairs
Products Available OnLine
MOBILITY

CANES:

- Choosing the Proper Cane
Canes are available in a wide variety of shapes and styles. Men will be more comfortable with having a larger handle or crook. Women's canes are usually smaller in diameter with a smaller handle.

Measuring
Fitting a cane requires some measuring. The cane handle should be even with the hip joint (greater trochanter). Non-adjustable canes can be cut at the lower end to suit the individual. The patient's elbow should have a 25 to 30 degree flex.
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Quad Canes
- There are a few basic styles of quad canes to choose from. The most popular are large base and small base. Quad canes are used by patients who are insecure with a regular cane due to age or frailty, and are also used by hemiplegics (a patient who is paralyzed on one side but doesn't require crutches). When using a quad cane, the extended legs are away from the body. The patient's elbow should have a 25 to 30 degree flex.
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CRUTCHES:

Proper Use
- Crutches are available in several styles. They are made of wood or aluminum, and come in adult, junior and child lengths. They are all adjustable. Proper use of crutches is very important. The patient's weight is borne on the hands, not under the arm. The top of the crutch should rest against the chest wall I 1 / 2" to 2" below the armpit. The position of the handgrips should result in a 25 to 30 degree flex in the elbow when relaxed. When the patient pushes down and raises his/her weight off the floor, their arms should be almost straight. Top

Forearm Crutches
Forearm crutches are constructed of aluminum, making them easier and lighter to use. The metal arm cuff encircles the forearm. The cuffs can be front or side opening, and should be adjustable. They are available in youth and adult sizes. When the cuff is properly fitted, the patient should be able to use their hand without having the crutch fall to the floor. Top

WALKERS:

- Folding and Rigid (Non-Folding)
Walkers offer greater mobility for those with a more serious level of instability. A walker is used when canes or crutches are not sufficient.

Adult walkers come in two basic styles, folding and rigid (non-folding). The folding walker will fold down to approximately 3 1/2" for easier storage or travel. It has a self-locking mechanism that will lock into place when the walker is opened, making it impossible to fold on its own.

Auto-stop wheels, free rolling wheels, glide brakes, and baskets are some of the additional options that can be purchased for these walkers for greater versatility. Top

Using the Walker
Starting with both feet together, the walker is moved by lifting up and pushing forward, making sure the device remains parallel to the ground at all times. Once the walker is set down, the patient steps into the open portion of the walker. This procedure is repeated.

In most cases, the height should be adjusted to provide a 30-degree bend at the elbow, when the hands are grasping the handles. ROLLATORS:

- Rollators are the key to independence. These walkers offer the ability to go anywhere, as they all come equipped with seats for when fatigue sets in, locking brakes for assured safety, and baskets for parcels. Backrests are now one of the most requested options; making rollators a safer, more comfortable mobility device. Rollators generally come in two basic seat heights: standard and low. Top

WHEELCHAIRS:

A wheelchair has a basic function, therefore one basic design, though there are many styles and accessories adapt to the special needs of each individual. There are many factors which contribute to choosing an appropriate chair:

- The size and weight of the patient, the type and degree of disability, and the patient's living and working conditions. Choosing the correct size of wheels and casters depend on the amount of time the patient will be using the chair indoors and out. A patient may be in the wheelchair for an extensive period of time, therefore comfort as well as the looks of the chair are crucial considerations. Top

Mobility products are available
in our OnLine Shopping Area

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