WALKERS VS. CRUTCHES
What is your preference? I’d really like to hear from those using either mobility device why they like to use the one they do. For myself, I have chosen the walker. I’m not elderly, and I’m certainly no spring chicken, either. I do suffer from some form of vanity, but it appears to not affect the part of the brain that freaks out about being seen using a walker. I suspect, (though can’t back it up with statistics), that anyone younger than 40 is going to go right for the crutches, as walkers seem to relate to old age in many peoples minds. I’ve known of some folks who were certifiably old, refuse to use a walker for that very reason! Well, for me that defies reason, and I chose to use a walker because of it’s stability, and my apparent lack-of! In the hospital I was given a choice by the physical therapist of crutches, or walker. She made an assumption (I am assuming!) that I would prefer the crutches (must be because I look younger than my age, no doubt!). But after just two wobbly steps, I said “no way”! I mean, it was clear as day to me that I needed something to hold onto whose stability came from itself, and not from me! I did try crutches later on, around the 3 month mark. But even though I was able to swoosh about the abode with some amount of grace, I never really felt quite centered and balanced. And that my friends, is uber important for those with Charcot foot who are being in a state of non-weight-bearing. Losing one’s balance means a mis-step to correct, and an opportunity to accidentally step on your NWB (non-wieght-bearing) foot. The primary assist in healing is keeping off that foot, so remember to try to keep good balance no matter which mobility device you select. So cautiously carry on, fellow charcoters!