Walking Aid Prescription

Walking aid prescription means a physiotherapist assesses how you walk and balance, chooses the right type of aid, sets it to your body and teaches you to use it safely. A walking stick gives light balance support on one side. For a stick, the handle sits at your wrist crease when you stand relaxed, so that your elbow is slightly bent, and the guide advises speaking to a health professional about your stick.¹ Underarm crutches mainly take weight off a leg: the top sits about 5 centimetres (two to three fingers) below your armpit, the handles sit at your wrist crease, and your weight goes through your hands, not your armpits, to protect nerves and skin.² A four wheeled walker gives more support while keeping a walking rhythm, and has hand brakes and often a seat; the brakes must be locked before sitting, and the handles should not be used to pull yourself up.³

Fit matters for safety, not just comfort. Older adults using walking frames at home can use them incorrectly without realising, and incorrect use can reduce stability.⁴ That is why we check height, brakes and technique in the places you actually walk, such as doorways, carpet edges and kerbs, and why an aid bought without advice may not suit you. Walking aids can support balance and take load off a limb; they are one part of falls prevention, alongside strength and balance exercise.

Funding depends on your situation. NDIS participants may be able to use assistive technology funding in their plan, and older people may be eligible through My Aged Care programs, so ask about eligibility before you buy.³ Eligible veterans can access walking frames through the DVA Rehabilitation Appliances Program, where an allied health professional needs a valid GP referral before prescribing.⁵ In Western Australia, the Community Aids and Equipment Program can also provide equipment for some people, through a referral completed by a health professional.