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Osteoarthritis
Case Study
Diagnosis:
A 65-year-old overweight woman with a five-year history of progressively worsening osteoarthritis.
Challenges and Strengths:
- Pain in both knees. X-rays show signs of bony enlargement and tenderness. Pain can be reduced through sitting or lying down.
- Morning stiffness for about 20 minutes, and for a few minutes after getting up from a chair during the day.
- Difficulty walking for more than 10 minutes.
- Reduced range of motion of both knees.
- Loss of confidence in walking - felt that her knees might “give way”.
- Reduced range of motion in the cervical and lumbar spine, particularly in lateral bending.
- In hands there are Bouchard’s nodes (proximal interphalangeal joints) and Heberden’s nodes (distal interphalangeal joints). Further questioning reveals the patient experiences occasional pain and stiffness in these joints as well.
- Lives with supportive spouse but is losing contact with her community and social connections.
- Cognitively intact.
Solution:
Lightweight rollator with ergonomic grips, easy to apply brakes, soft seat, basket and 8” casters
The lightweight construction of the rollator frame and easy rolling of the 4 large casters reduced the client’s fatigue in using the rollator. The soft ergonomic grips encouraged the client to redistribute some of her weight away from her painful knees while still protecting her fragile finger joints. The seat allowed the client to plan and pace her activities when engaging in activities that extended beyond her endurance or pain tolerance. The stable feel and smooth walking gait obtained in using the rollator increased the client’s confidence in her mobility. The larger casters roll over small thresholds and uneven ground with less effort and greater comfort than smaller casters. The doorways in the home are able to accommodate the slightly larger turning radius required by the larger casters. The patient’s weight is within the lower weight capacity that often results from the lighter frame construction.
Re-engagement in community activities followed a brief period of increased physical activity and regular exercise. The client’s spouse is able to pack the rollator into the back seat of their car. The client’s increased activity level has elevated her mood level and she has begun voicing interest in weight loss programs.
Choosing the Right Walker
You’ll need to consider much more than physical ability.
What about the environment and social supports?
Do You Need a Therapist?
And if so, how do you find a therapist?
We have a number of associations you may contact.
Where to Purchase a Walker
You have options and we have recommendations.
There is also financial assistance available to you.
Using a Walker Safely
From basic activities to common mistakes, here’s a guide to help you use your non-wheeled walker or wheeled walker safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly given answers. Feel free to contact us if you’d like to contribute and help others.
Case Studies
Professionally prepared resources that offer guidance to a successful thought process based on past experiences.
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