One of the dreadful effects of arthritis is the reduction in a sufferer’s mobility. This can be due to the stiffness in affected joints, as well as the awful pain. But it can also be as a result of the cartilage damage that leads to physical weakness meaning that our range of movement is diminished.

This can have a terrible impact on the quality of our daily life if it affects our walking. Whether indoors or outdoors, our personal safety is reduced, and the risk of injury is higher if we are less certain on our feet. And the horrible loss of confidence is perhaps the worst consequence.

Given the mobility difficulties that are experienced by an arthritis sufferer, it is good news that there is a large, and always expanding range of walking aids on the market for us to choose from. Below, we take a quick look at four separate types of walking aids and we recommend a specific device within each category.

Let’s look at our first, and very familiar category:

1. Walking Sticks

The range and styles of waking sticks is extensive (why not take a quick look at our full range here).

And one of the great design innovations of recent times has been the stick – or cane – that is made specifically with the arthritis sufferer in mind.

All walking sticks and canes are intended to help with balance and to allow you to direct weight in a controlled and safe manner. They are functional and, of course, they are predominantly the preserve of older people. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish or that we can’t select a design that reflects our personality. Personally, if my choice is between plain old gun-metal grey or a walking stick that is adorned with multi-coloured bubbles or etched in gold, then I’m certain where my decision lies.

But even if we are not motivated by matters of fashion, then the emergence of the arthritis walking stick has been a revelation.

What’s so great about an arthritis walking stick?

Here’s our top 5 reasons to always choose a specialist stick if you’re an arthritis sufferer:

1. The grip is orthopaedically designed
2. Weight (and strain) is distributed across the grip to increase the comfort level and reduce the pressure on sore joints
3. It’s height adjustable and foldable
4. It weighs less than traditional sticks
5. Suitable for left or right-handed users

GO HERE to see our top recommendation in this category.

2. Wheelchairs

If the arthritic condition has progressed to a point where the knee or hip pain is simply too extreme to permit periods of continuous walking, then the option of a wheelchair can be very welcome.

Self-propelled or powered, sports style or all-terrain, there’s a wheelchair out there for everyone who needs it.

Our range is far from comprehensive but take a look at what is presently available – go here.

Undoubtedly a wheelchair can be an essential and invaluable aid for extending your independence. And whether designed for indoor or outdoor use, or both, the improvement to a person’s quality of daily life can be immeasurable.

We love the fact that most wheelchairs are available with a host of accessories: cushions, seats, baskets, trays, clips for a walking stick or shopping bag, rainproof covers, brollies and fleeces, these all enhance the functionality of the wheelchair and contribute to its value for the user.

GO HERE to see our top recommendation in this category. (we really like this onec because it’s foldable!)

3. Walkers

Walkers are a definite favourite of ours. They’re a step up from a walking stick but are still lightweight, mobile and portable.

Here’s the other three things we really like about walkers:

1. 4 legs, so 4 points of contact with the ground which maximises stability
2. The design ensures weight is supported properly, which takes the strain from the most painful parts of your body
3. The upright frame promotes an upright standing position for the user, which has to be better than slouching or slumping.

It’s worth noting that not all walkers come with adjustable grips. Preferably, buy one that can be adjusted and also has a sweat-resistant handle grip.

GO HERE to see our top recommendation in this category.

4. Rollators

We like to think of a rollator as a walker with wheels.

(If you want to see our full range of rollators go here)

Why choose a rollator?

There are lots of good reasons to choose a rollator, but here are four of the best:

1. You can have a 4-wheel rollator, or a 3-wheel one (the choice is down to personal preference because both styles provide excellent stability and mobility)
2. They are even better when used outdoors than indoors – and they are great indoors!
3. You can sit on them when needing a wee break – particularly welcome when shopping
4. They are a pretty economical buy, more expensive than a walking stick, but cheaper than a mobility scooter or many wheelchairs

Of course, to use a rollator you need a level of strength in arms and hands. But the design of the best rollators ensures the frame is lightweight while still robust, and the grips are ergonomically shaped meaning they work comfortably, efficiently, and safely.

GO HERE to see our top recommendation in this category.

Last comments

The awfulness of the arthritis condition is not easily mitigated. Lifestyle and diet, as well as prescribed medication, can all play a role in addressing its worst effects. But whatever the success or otherwise of these and other practices, it’s vital that for our mental and emotional well-being we continually strive for independence. These mobility aids can go a long way to helping us achieve that objective.