I use a wheelchair most of the time, but can walk a little and standing up is really good exercise for my legs and back. So I bought a standard walking frame. I thought this would help assist me walking and standing as both of these are very difficult to do without help.

My frame is:

• lightweight and weighsunder 3kg
• made from aluminium tubing
• Very rigid and strong

I have outlined below what I think are my walking frame’s good and bad points:

Good Points

Height adjustable

It is great that the frame’s height is adjustable. Having it at just the right height for me is so important. I don’t have to stoop, or stand in an unnatural position – I just changed the height of each leg in turn.

I am 5′ 10″ and use don’t use the frame on it’s maximum height. I think the frame would be suitable for people much shorter or taller than me. It’s height dimensions are 88-99 cms or 32-39 inches

No wheels
Some walking frames have wheels on 2 of the legs. I personally don’t like this. It probably makes it easier to push along, but they make me feel wobbly.

Sturdy
I like the sturdy and strong feel of my frame. Once standing up using it, I feel very safe and secure. It is quite wide (56cms/22.5inches) which I think helps it be very sturdy.

Hand grips
The hand grips are comfortable and in the right place. They are made of rubber, so do not get really cold to touch.

Rubber supports (ferrules) on the feet
These make it secure when using it on a laminate, tiled or vinyl floors.

Folds up
It folds up easily and I store it down the side of the wardrobe.

User weight
When I look at the specifications of the frame, it can be used by people up to 180 kg or 28 stone.

Bad Point

I have found only one bad point to do with my walking frame. It is difficult to walk with it as you have to lift the frame up and move it before each step. It makes you walk in a very stop/start manner. For me, it’s not a natural walking aid, due to having no wheels.

Overall
For me it is a really good frame for standing up with but not for walking with. I have tried and used many different kinds of mobilty equipment and I must say that my walking frame is one that I use everyday.

Author: Jason