Walking Frames

Zimmer Walking Frames in Brisbane

Walking frames (also referred to as a Zimmer Frame, Pulpit Frame or Hopper Frame) are used either as part of a rehabilitation program or as a long term mobility aid where the user has permanent limited mobility. The term Zimmer Frame came about when American company Zimmer Biomet began manufacturing their improved version of the original 1940’s design by William Cribbes Robb.  ‘Zimmer Frame’ has since been genericized and is used interchangeably with ‘walking frame’ in Australia

Zimmer frames / walking frames provide a wide stable platform and mostly used as a rehabilitation aid. The user has to pick up the frame and move it forward, stepping into it to gain a step. The gait is not free flowing, but (rather) jerky in motion. Walking frames may have wheels or no wheels.

Non wheeled walking frames are more stable as they allow the user’s full body weight to bear on all four feet. They are also known as pulpit walking frames, pyramid walking frames, or ‘Zimmer’ frames, and made of steel or aluminium tube, with adjustable height on all legs. They come as fixed frame or folding frame types. Non wheeled walking frames have ferrules on the tip of all four legs, or with glides (skis) on front or back legs.

Fixed walking frames are also known as rigid walking frames. They do not fold, and are the safest configuration.

Folding walking frames are easily stored and transported. The pulpit models hinge from the sides which fold over one another for compactness. They are usually made rigid by either spring loaded locking pins or ‘soft touch’ buttons, either method being easily accessible by the user. Another easier form of release is by pulling on a wooden ball attached to a drawstring on the front of the frame.

Triangular walking frames consist of two parts, hinged at the front, which when folded form a very low profile.

Rigid forearm walkers or gutter arm walkers are a more specialised form of walker usually formed with an attachment to a standard rigid walking frame, consisting of a vertical tube having an adjustable forearm trough (or gutter) and handgrip, which allows the user to bear their weight through their forearm.

Reciprocal frame walkers are made up of three parts, the two sides hinged to the front section so they can be alternately moved forward in the same manner as walking. These frames are more manoeuvrable than rigid ones, but not as stable.

Bi level walking frame has grips located slightly above mid way on the rear legs, which allows the user to more easily pull themselves safely into an upright position preparatory to moving forward. It can have a rigid or folding frame.

Wheeled walking frames are the same as non wheeled walking frames but have two or more wheels in front and ferrules (feet) or glides (skis) on the rear of the frame. The small front wheels make them easier to walk with as only the rear legs need to be lifted to move forward. Small wheels are also available as optional extras for folding and bi level walking frames.

Wheeled walking frames with more than two wheels are nowadays more generally known as rollators, or ‘wheelie walkers’. They are available in a wide variety of configurations, usually with proper handgrips, brakes, and other accessories. Wheel sizes are also varied, and should be chosen for the user’s environment. Larger wheels are preferred for uneven ground and outdoor use, smaller wheels for smooth surfaces and indoor use. Accessories includes padded seats, shopping baskets, fixed or fold down trays, cup/drink holders and walking stick holders. Rollators are more commonly used by people who have a greater amount of movement and are in better overall health.

Here at Mobility Rentals & Sales, we have a large selection of walking frames available in Brisbane & the Gold Coast. Shop online or visit our showroom in Woodridge, Brisbane to view the full range.

Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs in finding the right Walking frame to best suit your needs.