Choosing a Walking Aid: What to Compare Before You Decide
A walking aid can support balance, posture and confidence when walking is becoming harder. The best choice depends on how much support is needed, how long it is likely to be needed, and where the person will be using it day to day.
What a walking aid is designed to do
Walking aids include walking sticks, crutches, walking frames and, in some cases, rollators. They are designed to help redistribute weight, improve balance and support a more upright walking pattern. For some people they are part of rehabilitation. For others they become an ongoing mobility aid.
If you are becoming less steady on your feet, or experiencing joint pain or sore leg muscles, it is sensible to speak with your doctor or physiotherapist before starting any self-directed approach.
What to think about before choosing
- How much support is needed right now
- Whether the need is temporary, changing or long term
- How the home is set up, including stairs, driveways and floor surfaces
- Whether the aid also needs to suit work, travel or community use
In some homes, a person may use one aid indoors and a different aid for stairs or outdoor access.
Get the fit right
Height adjustment is essential. If a walking aid is too low, it can encourage a bent posture. If it is too high, it may not allow the arms to take enough weight effectively. Measure the user while they are wearing appropriate footwear.
Main walking aid types
Walking sticks and canes
Walking sticks may be used singly or as a pair. Options include folding sticks, swan-neck designs, contoured grips, tripod or quad bases, seat sticks and longer white canes used for impaired vision. The right style depends on how much support and stability is needed.
Crutches
Common types include underarm crutches, elbow crutches, gutter arm crutches and Canadian crutches. They differ in how weight is supported and how much lower-limb weight bearing is expected.
Walking frames
Walking frames provide a wider, more stable base. Options include rigid frames, folding frames, reciprocal frames, bi-level frames and forearm or gutter-arm walkers.
Wheeled frames and rollators
Adding wheels can make a frame easier to move. Rollators generally suit people with better overall mobility who still need support, brakes and sometimes a seat or basket. Larger wheels tend to suit rougher outdoor ground, while smaller wheels are usually better indoors.
Look after the equipment
Walking aids should be checked regularly for wear. Ferrules, wheels, joints, screws and height-adjustment points all need attention over time. Worn rubber feet, cracked parts or loose fittings can reduce safety.
To browse options, visit our walking aids range or contact our team.
Need help narrowing down the right option?
If you are comparing products, planning support or working out what is likely to suit best, our team can help.