Mobility Guide

Mobility Products A-Z

Searching for the proper mobility product to fit your need can seem like a confusing endeavor. It turns out that mobility needs are as individual as, well individuals are. Mobility limitations can be different from person to person, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution to overcoming mobility limitations or needs. As with anything, it is prudent to find the mobility product that fits your need exactly and is not overkill. Using a mobility product that is designed for someone with a greater need only means using a medical aid that isn’t suited for you and is probably economically foolish. We here at HPFY can point you in the right direction to find the mobility product at comfortably suits you.

Mobility Limitation Causes

Just as each person is individually unique, mobility limitation varies from patient to patient and even provides us with different levels of severity. Your mobility limitation may be minor, while somebody else may experience more severe limitations to their coordination, balance, and mobility. Seven potential reasons for limited or compromised mobility (especially as we age) include:

• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Heart Issues
• Diminished Balance/Coordination
• Obesity
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Stroke

While these may be some common causes of limited mobility, other issues such as substance abuse and aging can contribute to our mobility being limited or compromised. Any of these, or a combination of more than one, can limit our ability to get around this world independently without needing assistance or aid.

Mobility Aids

There are different levels of medical/mobility aids available to those with a diminished level of mobility. You may only need a little help or you may need more comprehensive assistance to get around. Your physician may recommend being evaluated by a physical therapist in order to determine the extent of your mobility limitations. This is wise since they will be the ones who can point to the proper mobility products for you without paying for a piece of equipment that you will not fully need. Depending on what your mobility limitation is, some options (from least to more intricate) available include:

• Vionic Full-Length Orthotic Relief Insert: For those that may need just a little bit more stability, these economical alternatives to custom-made orthotics can give you the sturdy base needed for improved coordination and balance. These can be worn in most footwear including sneakers, hiking shoes, and boots.
• EZ-Step Stair Climbing Cane: This adjustable and lightweight (2 lbs.) patented cane is specifically designed to make any flight of stairs assessable to anyone who may have difficulty with stairs. It reduces the range of motion required to ascend or descend stairs in the house or at the pool and can be used left or right-handed.
• Essential Medical Designer Aluminum Offset Cane: Offset canes are the number one style of cane recommended by physical therapists. This cane is available in a multitude of fashionable options, so show off your style safely. The 7/8 in. shaft is adjustable and the foam handle is easily gripped by anyone suffering from arthritis.
• Guardian UltraLight Freedom Rollator: If your mobility needs are slightly greater, this adjustable rollator can accommodate users ranging from 4’11”-6’4” and is lightweight and foldable for easy portability. The easy squeeze brakes make this mobility aid easily and securely maneuvered while supporting up to 250 pounds.
• UPWalker Lite Walking Aid: This walker allows the user to stand more upright in order to regain mobility. This creates a safer and upright posture and is particularly useful indoors where it is highly maneuverable and lightweight even though it can support 300 pounds. It comes with a conveniently integrated seat for respites on those long walks.
• Invacare Tracer IV Heavy Duty Manual Wheelchair: When mobility impairment becomes greater, the need for a wheelchair may be necessary. This durable and low maintenance wheelchair offers the user a sturdy, reinforced heavy-duty frame that provides excellent mobility and maneuverability while preserving comfort.
• Chattanooga Alliance Hydraulic HE Patient Lift: For those that have severely diminished mobility, this patient lift allows for completely dependent patient transfers from bed to wheelchair or to other seating options. This can minimize the potential for falling during transfers, therefore minimizing the risk of broken bones and fractures. It has a safe working load of 400 pounds and a multi-tilt spreader bar for superior stability and comfort.

When we are young we can take our mobility for granted, but as we age or experience injuries and other health issues our mobility can be the first casualty. Your mobility needs may be minor, temporary, or more drastic, but there are a wide range of mobility aids/products that can benefit just about everyone. Work with your physical therapist to determine what your mobility limitations may be and what medical device is appropriate for you both practically and economically. Don’t let your mobility limitations keep you from enjoying everything you did when your mobility may have been greater and maintain your quality of life!!

 

Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.