Description
The Kaye Anterior Support Walkers were designed for children and adults who can support their weight on their legs and take steps, but who lack sufficient balance or upper body and shoulder control to maintain their alignment. These walkers were designed for users with neuromuscular impairments associated with severe spasticity, athetosis or ataxia. These users often need to be aligned slightly forward of their base of support tofacilitate stepping. Our aim with the Kaye Anterior Support Walkers is to allow individuals to gain mobility in the upright position. This, in turn, should assist in maintaining range of motion and strength while permitting participation with walking age-mates.
Features
The Kaye Anterior Support Walkers differ from typical anterior walkers in three ways. First, the user stands within the walker’s base of support. Clinicians report that the wide stable base is particularly useful for users with severe balance problems related to traumatic brain injury or other neuropathology involving the cerebellum or basal ganglion.
Second, the chest support with adjustable angle allows the user to lean into this solid support while maintaining alignment of the trunk and hips over their feet. This allows the user to lean forward without flexing at the hips. Attached to the chest cushion are adjustable, lateral supports which assist alignment in the frontal plane.
Third, these walkers have front swivel wheels that can be locked in the forward position. This allows the user to maneuver and turn the walker without lifting. The rear wheels are equipped with external ratchets to prevent the walker from rolling backward.