A walker can be such a life-changing mobility aid — but only when it’s perfectly adjusted for your height. A walker that is too high or too low can lead to falls, wrist strain, and general discomfort. So what’s the correct walker height, and how do you know if it’s properly adjusted?
What’s the Correct Walker Height?
Having the correct walker height is crucial for ensuring proper posture, balance, and safety. When you’re using a walker, you should be able to keep a straight posture, with your wrists at a comfortable 90-degree angle and elbows with an approximate 30-degree bend. This will ensure that you have optimal support with minimal strain on your joints.
Ideal Posture:
- Stand Tall: Keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Contrary to popular belief, you should never be hunched over when you’re using a walker!
- Elbows Bent: Your elbows should be bent at an approximate 30-degree angle while holding the walker handles.
- Wrist Height: The walker handles should be at the level of your wrists.
If your walker doesn’t allow you to keep this posture, then you’ll have to adjust the height until it does.
Extra-tall or especially short people may need to shop for a walker that’s designed for petite or tall persons.
Ideal Seat Height:
In addition to proper handle height, it is important to make sure the seat height is ideal for the user. Similar to a bicycle, you will adjust the seat height to the user. When seated on a rollator, make sure that your feet are flat on the ground and legs positioned at 90 degree angle. Being seated should feel comfortable and it should be easy to get on and off the seat, with the brakes in a locked position and using the handles for leverage.
Useful Equipment: NOVA Rollators
Why It’s Important to Have the Correct Walker Height
When adjusted to the right height, a walker can:
- Prevent Falls: Properly adjusted walkers provide better support and put you at lesser risk of tripping or losing your balance.
- Reduce Strain: A walker that’s the correct height will promote a natural and more comfortable posture, reducing strain on your joints and wrists.
- Improve Your Comfort Level: A well-adjusted walker is easier to maneuver and requires less effort and energy to use.
Many people stop using walkers altogether when they’re too uncomfortable or difficult to use. By ensuring that your walker is adjusted to the correct height, you can make using a walker more enjoyable and effective!
Related Blog: 5 Things to Look for When Testing a Walker
Adjusting NOVA Walkers
At NOVA, we design our walkers and rollators with adjustability in mind, making it easy to set the perfect height – especially in our NOVA STAR series.
How to Find a Walker That’s the Perfect Fit
The best way to find a walker that feels comfortable is to visit a local pharmacy or home medical equipment store, especially the stores that are partnered with NOVA — these stores have knowledgeable staff that will help you test drive a variety of different walkers, and they can help you adjust the height for a perfect fit.
Use our NOVA dealer locator to find a store in your area!