Walker for better balance 2

[Amynah]

I would like to update all - I spoke with my consultant and GP and they have given me referral for physio to advise me on what walker to buy. Let's see what they say. I will keep you all posted

[smiling1]

There seems to be some walkers that take getting used to because they're not designed to work as you might expect. You mention balance. You may like one where you can get inside. It goes partially round you and you walk within it, with your arms more in their natural position rather than a baby's pram that you push. These will take getting used to. They are designed to help you balance by forcing you to walk more slowly. Being inside, you are nearer the wheels and you might kick them. You have to slow down and make sure you don't kick them. I read recently that the design actually improved his balance (though I wouldn't count on that). I'm afraid there doesn't seem to be one that will do all you wish.

Having said that, I am at a similar stage to you - have a physio who is helping me to find one and this is what I've learned so far.

PS - don't forget to smile 🙂

[Amynah in reply to smiling1]

Thanks, for your suggestion, I had never heard of the walker that you are describing. Do you of the company that does this?My walking has become Extremely slow because of jerks - I do exercise and it helps.

[smiling1 in reply to Amynah]

U-step walker is from attainability.co.uk/

Attainability UK LtdKillara

Racecourse Lane

Shrewsbury

Shropshire

SY3 5BJ

However it's jolly expensive and I'm told that NHS is a hit and miss. I'm lucky to have a good physiotherapist who knows she's about. Ask your local physiotherapist what they think and get it via them at whatever discount the can get. Second option is your GP. Point out that its designed for ataxia as shown. If they can't help, you'll say they can't help, get in touch with these people NHS and see what they can suggest. Watch the video but take it with a pinch of salt as it's an advert. The battery is for the laser light and you won't need either. Your jerky movements sound pretty normal for ataxia!

Peter

[Amynah in reply to smiling1]

Thanks Peter, you really are a great help. My GP has given me a referral to local physio. I hope it's same person I am seeing from 2018 . She is awesome. I did look at u step and it is expensive but if I need it then I will have to buy it but I want to be 100% sure before spending so much. Will keep you posted.

[smiling1 in reply to Amynah]

Watch the brakes - its an issue with mine but since I have no experience with rollators, maybe it's not unusual. But bad brakes ought not to be a problem at that price. The chap who will come to see you may be called Bruce and ultimately he's a salesman whose main object is a bit of money. At my GP surgery you can ask for a particular GP to ensure you see the one you want. I've also just come across an article by the ever-helpful Beryl called 'Sources to try for help getting disability grants in the UK'