One thing we see quite a lot of at work is worn ferrules. I always say to people you wouldn’t let the wheels on your car go bald and the same thing applies to your ferrules. When the rubber has been rubbed away it provides a lot less grip. Particularly when it’s slippery and wet, so it’s really important to check them regularly and make sure they still have good grip and are not perished. We have seen some that are completely worn through and have a hole in the bottom!
It’s also really important to think about the type of ferrule that you use, you will all be familiar with the standard rubber type but there are some on the market known as a flexi foot which are really clever and as well as providing shock absorbing qualities they also tilt to provide a flatter surface when you’re walking along.
One thing I would always say about walking aids, be it a walking stick, Zimmer frame, delta frame or 4 wheeled Walker is make sure that you have the right walking aid for you. A lot of people feel that they’re either too good or not quite ready for a walking aid. Conversely often they tell me that they’ve stopped getting out to the shops or walking as much as they feel worried about falling. Getting the right walking aid can mean increasing levels of independence, fitness and strength which holds you in good stead for the future which is really important.
Things to think about with walking frames are the wheels, although they are for outdoors if you’re planning to use them “off road” or basically any where which is a little rough consider and all terrain wheel. Also think about the weight of the frame as you will potentially need to be able to lift it into your car and if it’s too heavy it will hamper you completely.
It’s always best to have a go of the different walking aids and get something that feels right for you and what you need. A lot of the shops nowadays will let you have a try but also we have a number of frames that our patients can try. I feel this is important as it’s better to have a try before you buy and then you make sure that you’re getting the right frame for you.
