If you have suffered a lower leg injury or surgery, you may need to keep weight off your injured leg for a period of time. It means that you are not allowed to put any pressure on your leg, not even to balance or stand. Non-weight bearing is important for proper healing and recovery, but it can also be challenging and frustrating. How can you move around and do your daily activities without putting your leg down?
One possible solution is to use a non weight bearing scooter, also known as a knee walker or a knee scooter. This is a device that has four wheels, a padded knee platform, and handlebars. You can rest your injured leg on the knee platform, and use your good leg to propel yourself forward. You can also steer the handlebars to change direction and apply brakes to stop.
A knee scooter can offer many benefits over other mobility aids, such as crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs. Some of these benefits are:
- It is easy and comfortable to use. You don’t have to worry about underarm pain, wrist strain, or fatigue from using crutches. You also don’t have to lift your whole body weight with your arms or sit in a confined space like a wheelchair.
- It is fast and stable. You can move around at a normal walking speed or faster, and you can maneuver through narrow spaces and uneven surfaces. You also have more balance and stability than with crutches or walkers, which can be slippery or wobbly.
- It is convenient and functional. You can use both your hands to carry items, open doors, or do other tasks. You can also adjust the height of the knee platform and the handlebars to fit your size and preference. Some models even have baskets or pouches to store your belongings.
It can also help you maintain your independence and quality of life while you recover from your injury or surgery. However, it is not suitable for everyone or every situation. Before you decide to use one, you should consult with your doctor and physical therapist to make sure it is safe and appropriate for you. You should also follow their instructions on how to use it properly and avoid complications.
Some of the things you should consider before using a knee walker are:
- Your type and severity of injury. Some injuries may require more immobilization or elevation than a knee scooter can provide. For example, if you have a fracture that needs a cast or a boot, you may not be able to bend your knee enough to fit on the knee platform. Or if you have severe swelling or bleeding, you may need to keep your leg elevated above your heart level, which may be difficult on a knee scooter.
- Your physical ability and condition. You need to have enough strength, balance, coordination, and endurance to use a knee scooter safely and effectively. You also need to have good vision and awareness of your surroundings. If you have any medical conditions that affect these abilities, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, or dementia, you may not be able to use a knee scooter or may need extra supervision or assistance.
- Your environment and lifestyle. You need to have enough space and accessibility in your home and workplace to use a knee scooter. You also need to consider how you will transport it when you go out, such as in a car or on public transportation. Some models are foldable or detachable for easier storage and travel, but others are bulky and heavy. You also need to think about how you will manage stairs, curbs, ramps, doors, carpets, wet floors, or other obstacles that may pose challenges for using a knee scooter.
A non weight bearing scooter can be a great option for some people who need to keep weight off their injured leg, but it is not for everyone. If you are interested in using one, you should talk to your doctor and physical therapist first to make sure it is right for you. They can also help you find the best model for your needs and teach you how to use it safely and correctly.