If the word "walker" comes up in conversation, most people would think of the type used by older adult's post-pelvic fracture or after a stroke to aid with balance. However, this tool is no longer confined to the grownups. The new generation of posture control, or reverse walkers can help toddlers through teens living with challenges such as cerebral palsy, musculoskeletal conditions such as myelodysplasia, or recovery from traumatic injuries. Rehabmart offers five sizes of Kaye Posture Control Walkers to help differently abled kids make strides.

Unlike the models used primarily by adults, the reverse walkers support the user from the back, encouraging good postural development as demonstrated in several clinical studies. The user's center of gravity is within the walker's support base, allowing him or her to develop the gross motor skills needed for the timing and rhythm involved in developing a smooth, steady gait.  The KAYE walkers can be used by anyone from toddlers to adolescents or even shorter adults and are suitable for use in private homes, residential facilities, and in classrooms.

  
Three wheel configurations are available. The "R" configuration features four wheels with the two at the rear being ratcheted to prevent the walker from rolling backwards. The "S" has locking swivel wheels on the front for easier navigation of places such as home or the classroom. Adjustable swivel limiters are available to control the front wheels' rotation. The "X" walker has rubber tires and one-way roller-bearing wheels on the rear for noise reduction while preventing the walker from rolling backwards. Basic models all come with rubber crutch tips on the rear legs to increase friction on the floor, allowing the user to walk at his or her own pace. All-terrain tires are another available option for smoother outdoor operation on uneven surfaces.

The KAYE walkers have additional options and add-ons to meet each user's individual needs. The Suspension Conversion Kit attaches to the B-series walker, providing a partial weight-bearing system to help small children who need help with dynamic standing or with gait training before they develop anti-gravity strength, balance, or gait control skills. Pelvic stabilizers and centering pads support the child as he or she stays in the center of balance in the middle of the walker, as does a sling support. The leg abductor helps children develop a gait free of scissoring or excessive adduction, encouraging them to walk without stumbling. A guide handle allows a caregiver to help with speed and steering without having to bend over, reducing the risk of creating back problems. Forearm supports enhance the grip of users who may have problems with hand strength or alignment. And to personalize the walker, decals in the user's choice of pink or camouflage are available.

  

Made of sturdy tubular metal, the walkers can be folded for easy transport in car trunks or on school buses. The handgrips are made of latex-free materials to avoid allergic reactions. Clinical studies have shown that differently abled children who use posture trainers reach their ambulatory potential more often than those who don't. These innovative KAYE walkers and their customizable accessories will help special needs children everywhere to make great strides in reaching their mobility goals.

Fran Jablway,
Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Team Leader & CEO