BASIC FEATURES: Knee Scooter

The content included in the video and comment section is for general information only.  Equipment and individual circumstances will vary.  Always refer to and review an equipment manual for specifics on use and safety of your piece of medical equipment.  Please consult with a local Physical or Occupational Therapist regarding your specific circumstances and use of medical equipment.

In this video caregivers will learn the basic features of a knee scooter, also referred to as a knee walker.  Knee scooters can come in different colors and sizes, include items such as baskets and bags and have different sizes of wheels depending on indoor or outdoor use as well as all terrain use.

Basic Features ( of most knee scooters)

  • Adjustable height knee platform, cushioned
  • Adjustable height handle bars
  • At least one brake at the handle bars
  • Typically have 4 wheels, though can have 3 as well

Who might benefit from a knee scooter? 

Anyone experiencing an injury below the knee who must be limited or non weightbearing.  The knee scooter is not for a knee injury and the user should have at least 90 degrees of knee bend and be able to tolerate weight through the knee on the injured/affected side.

Things to consider when purchasing a knee scooter (or getting one from a local lending closet)

  • Weight capacity
  • Weight of the scooter ( for loading into the car)
  • Adjustment height range for both the knee platform and handles
  • Does it fold or disassemble easily for loading into car
  • How often will you have to contend with stairs

Safety Tips

  • Use caution when changing surfaces, going over thresholds or using in gravel
  • Don't lean too far forward over the handle bars when reaching for something
  • Don't sit on the knee scooter to mobilize due to potential of loss of balance (if sitting is neccessary due to not being able to bend you knee or weightbear through your knee, look into a seated knee walker)
  • Use caution on inclines and declines
  • Use caution attempting to travel too fast
  • Use caution on 3 wheeled scooters due to reduced base of support in area of one wheel vs two.

 

 

https://aecorner.video/video/HELPdurham/basic-knee-scooter