A broken hip requires an extensive amount of time to heal. During this time, you will have mobility issues while you get better that will make walking
A broken hip requires an extensive amount of time to heal. During this time, you will have mobility issues while you get better that will make walking difficult, if not impossible. You can’t just stay immobile all day. Try these four ways to get around while you heal from a broken hip.
Crutches
For minor injuries or when you reach the end of your recovery, you can use crutches to aid you while you walk without putting as much pressure on your hip. Crutches work by transferring weight to the upper portion of your body. Most people use two crutches to enhance balance. Crutches are easy to carry and don’t take up a lot of space. However, crutches also create the highest likelihood of falling.
Walker
A walker redistributes weight, similar to the way crutches work. However, walkers provide much more stability, which is important for people who struggle with balance or weakened physicality, such as seniors. Walkers have wheels to make them easy to slide around the floor. Many of them also include a basket to make carrying items easy. When not needed, you can fold the walker to put it in storage. However, walkers take up a lot of space while in use.
Wheelchair
A wheelchair takes the pressure off of the legs altogether, giving users the ability to move by pushing wheels with their hands. Wheelchairs provide a great and somewhat affordable option for people who can’t put weight on their hips at all. It may take some getting used to if you haven’t needed a wheelchair before. You also won’t get exercise to your hip while using your wheelchair.
Mobility Scooters
Mobility scooters are motorized wheelchairs. You don’t need arm strength to maneuver them since you use simple electronic controls on a remote or a control panel on the scooter itself. Some mobility scooters have a small basket in the front or a safari cover for sunny days. You will be able to select from a wide variety of different designs and sizes, depending on your preferences and budget. While one of the more expensive options, they provide the best support with the least amount of effort. Talk to your insurance company about any assistance they will offer.
Don’t let a broken hip deter you from doing the things you love. Instead, try one of the aforementioned ways to get around while you heal.
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