Types of Equipment Used for Walking

The child’s posture should be as symmetrical as possible in his/her walking equipment. Whilst it may not always be possible to maintain an absolutely symmetrical posture, the therapist must ensure that the inevitable compromise between the benefits of walking and the position that can be achieved do not result in destructive postures which compromise the integrity of the child’s joints, muscles etc.

	Sticks, Tripods etc	Posture Control walkers	Anterior support walkers	Therapeutic	Recreational
Examples of commonly used walkers		Quest K-walker R82 Crocodile	Rollator	Rifton Pacer R82 Pony Theraplay Arrow R82 Bronco Leckey Atlas	David Hart Mullholland 3 Orlau Mey walker
Reasons for use	More able child Independence Self esteem Socially acceptable	Gives child a “safety zone” e.g. in the playground. Folds for transport Encourages anatomically correct posture while walking Choice of wheels – in/outdoor, fixed/swivel Easier to access tables, play games etc Socially acceptable – see the child not the walker	More able child with good cognitive ability Young children who need more support than a “toddle truck” to encourage walking Gives child a “safety zone” e.g. in the playground. Safer or easier to use for child with visual or perceptual problems	Adaptable / adjustable ++ Useful to develop/improve: gait pattern weight-bearing ability to choose motivation	Independent mobility for significantly affected child Opportunity for FUN/Play Helps improve exercise tolerance Useful in PE etc
Problems associated with use		Inclined to “scoot” May go off feet if don’t meet indicators	May go off feet if don’t meet indicators	May have adverse affect on posture if don’t meet indicators	Unrealistic expectations of parents/carers

Types of Equipment Used for Walking

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