Physical therapy can be an important part of recovery from an injury or surgery, helping you improve mobility, build strength, or learn new ways to move safely, but the work doesn’t always stop when you leave your physical therapy appointment.
The right mobility equipment can provide additional support as you go about your daily routine at home and in the community. Depending on your needs and your healthcare team’s recommendations, walkers, wheelchairs, lift chairs, and other equipment may make everyday movement more manageable.
Get Extra Support While Walking
If walking independently is difficult during recovery, a mobility aid may provide the additional stability and support you need.
Walkers and rollators are available in different styles to accommodate different mobility needs. Some provide basic walking support, while rollators typically include wheels, hand brakes, and a seat for resting when needed.
Use a mobility aid that fits your needs and is properly adjusted. Your physical therapist or another healthcare professional can help determine the right type of assistance and show you how to use the equipment correctly.
Make Getting Around Easier
Sometimes, walking longer distances is difficult or not recommended. Wheelchairs can provide another way to maintain mobility while recovering or managing a longer-term mobility limitation.
The right wheelchair depends on factors such as how often it will be used, where it will be used, and the level of assistance the individual needs.
For people who only need certain equipment temporarily, medical equipment rentals may also be worth considering. Renting can be a practical option during a short-term recovery period when you don’t need to buy equipment.
Create a More Comfortable Recovery Space
Mobility equipment isn’t limited to getting from one place to another. Certain products can also make everyday routines at home easier while you’re recovering.
A lift chair uses a powered mechanism to help raise the user from a seated position, which can provide additional assistance when sitting down or standing up is challenging.
Homecare beds offer adjustable positioning that can make resting and receiving care at home more comfortable. Depending on your situation, other home medical equipment may also help create a space that better accommodates your temporary or long-term mobility needs.
Your Mobility Needs May Change
The equipment that is useful at the beginning of physical therapy may not be what you need later. As your strength, balance, or mobility changes, your healthcare team may recommend adjusting the type or level of assistance you use.
That’s one reason it’s important to think about whether renting or purchasing makes the most sense. Short-term equipment needs may be better suited to a rental, while equipment you expect to use regularly over a longer period may make more sense to purchase.
Find Mobility Equipment That Fits Your Needs
Everyone’s experience with physical therapy and mobility is different. The goal is to find equipment that fits your needs, living environment, and your healthcare providers’ recommendations.
BEK Medical offers a variety of mobility and home medical equipment, including walkers, wheelchairs, lift chairs, homecare beds, and equipment rentals for short-term needs. Visit us in-store to explore your options and find equipment that can provide additional support during physical therapy, recovery, and everyday life.
