A broken or severely injured leg can be a nightmare to make your way around with. Daily tasks that require mobility like doing the housework or going grocery shopping become almost impossible to do. In such cases, certain equipment is required that can facilitate a person’s movement even though they may have an injured or a broken leg. What you choose depends on your personal preference, but here are some ways that you can move around even with a broken leg.
Table of Contents
1. Crutches
One of the easiest options to go for if you have a broken leg and still want to move around is crutches. Crutches are widely available and easy to use. If you aren’t familiar with crutches or don’t know how to use them, your doctor or physical therapist can teach you how.
Keep in mind the distance of the crutches from your armpits. Set them accordingly to your size so they can help you better. They should be about one or two inches below the armpit when you are standing upright. Keep the handles at your hip so your elbows have to bend when you are grasping them.
Make sure to always take short steps when you are moving with crutches. Keep most of your weight on one foot and keep space between you and the crutch. To use crutches, you will need arm strength and balance. If you feel low or are generally weak, make sure to visit your doctor first.
2. Wheelchair
Another easily accessible equipment to use for a broken leg is a wheelchair. Someone might push you, but when nobody is available, using a wheelchair yourself is not all that hard. Keep your tires inflated at all times so it is easier to move the wheelchair. Get a transport wheelchair (if you have nobody to push you) which comes with handles to make sure your mobility is made easier.
Your wheelchair brakes can also be adjusted to suit you best. Make sure to fix your brakes if you feel like they are a little loose or a little too tight. If you need medical assistance or professional help, you can contact professionals such as patient handling and get the best assistance.
3. Steerable Roller Scooter
Many patients who have one broken leg go for this option. These are a great choice to go for if you don’t have another person to drive you around while your foot is broken. These are easy to commute and also cause you less pain. To use a roller scooter, make sure to unlock the hand brakes, grab the handlebars, keep your leg on the knee rest, unlock the brakes and move your uninjured leg to move backwards or forwards.
4. Cane
Getting a cane is also a safe option if crutches aren’t suitable for you, or if your injury is not too severe. These are pretty self-explanatory. Put pressure on your unaffected leg and walk in small steps so your injured leg doesn’t hurt. Always keep in mind that your elbows should be slightly bent when you hold your cane.
5. Walking Frame
A walking frame is a great choice since it helps you alleviate pressure from your injured leg. There are standard walkers and also wheeled walkers. The wheeled walker has two wheels at the front – making it easier for the user to walk and putting less pressure on their legs.
6. Splint
Splints can either be readymade or you can get them customized for you. If you’re doing this yourself, make sure to tie the splint to your body and then tighten it down.