Where can I find a knee scooter in Raleigh? Have you heard of a knee scooter? Are knee scooters safe? You may be wondering what to do if you have had a surgery or injury that prevents you from bearing weight on your foot or ankle. Many individuals are non-weight bearing after a foot/ankle injury, meaning they are literally left with only one leg to stand on. This predicament is quite challenging, thus the invention of the knee scooter.
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Historically, when someone was non-weight bearing, they used either crutches, a walker or in some cases were confined to a wheelchair. It takes a significant amount of upper body strength to hop on one leg using a walker or crutches. Some people simply do not have that kind of upper body strength, or they have other injuries or issues that limit the use of the arms. In those cases, individuals were confined to a wheelchair for the duration of their healing. Being wheelchair confined can limit where you go and prevent you from doing things independently. Also, being in a wheelchair can be a mental struggle for some who do not want to feel “handicapped”.
The knee scooter allows for mobility by bearing weight through the knee on the injured leg and scooting around on the opposite side. It sounds like a life saver, and it can be. But there are certain limitations to know about up front. Insurance doesn’t always cover this sort of device. Before you fork out the cash it’s best to know if this will work for you.
What does the Research Say?
Are knee scooters safe? A 2017 study in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics found that 44% of patients fell using a knee scooter. Many of those fell more than once. It’s not perfect research, as only 80 of the 671 individuals in the study responded. But it does give some insight into the knee scooter’s limitations.
And having using these personally and training others to use them, I can tell you from experience there is a learning curve. It’s not as easy as it looks.
I’ve searched for specific statistics regarding injuries with knee scooters and haven’t found them yet. However, as someone who works in a hospital, I can tell you that gossip says that people definitely DO fall using knee scooters, often resulting in rib injuries and emergency department visits.
I’ve used a couple of these knee scooters and they can tip fairly easy. You have to make wide turns to avoid a spill. Another issue is getting on the knee scooter from sitting. It’s not the easiest thing to do. You have to be able to manage standing on one leg and getting it arranged on the knee scooter before you start maneuvering it forward.
Based on clinical experience, I can tell you that a knee scooter is going to require less endurance than using a walker or crutches. This assumption was confirmed in study in 2016, albeit a very small one of only 10 participants. However, if you have limited endurance from heart or lung issues, then it is a factor to take into consideration.
What are other concerns?
Other concerns to consider: If you are alone, will you be able to get in and out of the car? If you have someone with you can they manage putting the knee scooter in/out of the trunk? These same concerns apply to a wheelchair as well.
Will a knee scooter fit in your bathroom with enough space to maneuver safely? I imagine not for most bathrooms. So you may need a walker or crutches in addition to the knee scooter. However if a bathroom is really small, it may be difficult to even manage with a walker. Also it’s important to note that since knee scooters need a wide turning radius, a cluttered home is going to be very difficult or likely impossible to navigate.
Knee scooters cannot go up/down stairs. If you have just a couple steps going into your home you may be able to use a temporary ramp. If you have ongoing medical issues however, I strongly encourage installing a ramp. A ramp is well worth the expense. Check out this video of a woman using a rope to get her knee scooter up/down an indoor flight of stairs. Obviously this is not a perfect option, it requires upper body strength and the ability to get up and down from the floor with only one good leg. But desperate times sometimes call for unconventional measures. Especially since going up and down a flight of stairs with crutches is no easy task, even more challenging with a walker.
Do Knee Scooters Increase Risk of a Blood Clot? (DVT)
Are knee scooters safe for my overall health? I’ve read one report in Podiatry Today that suggested prolonged use of a knee walker may have resulted in a DVT – a deep vein thrombosis or blood clot. A DVT is a serious medical complication. In this particular case, the individual was on a knee scooter for 8 hours. NO ONE should have their knee bent at a 90 degree angle for that long, particularly after an injury. A knee scooter should be used to get from point A to point B, then straighten the knee and elevate the leg to control swelling.
So as you see, the knee scooter is not without drawbacks. However, when someone is unable to bear weight during injury recovery (which is usually 8 weeks or more), no perfect option exists. I’ve not met many people who have the upper body strength and coordination to manage non-weight bearing on a walker and even fewer on crutches. Often people are confined to wheelchairs, especially for longer distances. If you use the knee scooter correctly, it may be a good option. Best case scenario? If possible borrow one and try it before your surgery. And definitely have your physical therapist train you on its use. Most need a walker or crutches in addition to the knee scooter.
Another newer option on the market is the iWALK, which will be discussed in a later blog.
What about the cost?
Let’s talk finances for a moment. Knee scooters are rarely covered by insurance, check with your specific carrier to find out for sure. Several DME (durable medical equipment) companies offer rental options.
Most rental options I’ve seen are $30 ish a week. Bone takes 6-8 weeks to heal at a minimum, meaning most people need a mobility device for a couple of months. $30 x 8 weeks = $240. You can buy a knee walker off amazon or Walmart (as well as other sites) for under $200. Depending on the extent of injury and other factors, non-weight bearing can be closer to 12 weeks or even more. It may not make financial sense to rent one of these devices. You may also be able to find one used, I’ve seen them listed on craigslist and Facebook marketplace. Also purchasing a knee scooter through a medical supply place is going to cost you significantly more than if you go through Amazon, Walmart, etc. However, a medical supply store will handle the fit and adjustments of the knee scooter.
Any further questions? Are knee scooters safe? Effective for your needs? Not sure what device is right for you? For those of you in and around Raleigh, NC, we can do home assessments to help you determine your needs.
Contact me here.
FAQs
Should I get a knee scooter? ›
Overall, knee scooters are a great option for someone who has a long-term leg injury, co-occurring mobility issues, or any other more severe physical limitations and is seeking to get a mobility aid that'll offer more comfort. Seniors like to choose them because of their muscle weakness.
Are knee scooters safe for seniors? ›Conclusion. The knee scooter is a safe, and well-tolerated, mobility aid for patients requiring non-weight bearing during their recovery, with a high satisfaction rate. Educating patients on correct use and common causes for falling is important as a preventative measure.
Do knee scooters cause blood clots? ›In the Military Health System database, the use of a knee scooter following lower extremity injury or surgery is associated with a higher incidence of DVT compared to the 2015 NSQIPS incidence of DVT following major orthopedic surgery (0.80% vs 0.55%), and is most frequently diagnosed within 30 days of scooter ...
Why would you need a knee scooter? ›A knee scooter is a simple yet revolutionary mobility aid that is worth considering if you have an injured foot, ankle, or lower-leg muscle. This device enables you to do almost anything and to roam freely despite a mild disability.
What are the cons of using a knee scooter? ›Below are some of the disadvantages of using a knee scooter:
They can only be used for below-the-knee injuries. Patients with sensitive knees may not feel a knee scooter comfortable to use. You will need someone else to carry it up the stairs. Not all insurance cover them.
Knee Walkers are designed for weight-bearing relief for those who have injuries that include: fractures, diabetic wounds/ulcers, torn Achilles' tendon, sprained ankles, or surgery to the foot/ankle.
Is a knee scooter better than a walker? ›When it comes to overall ease of everyday use, a knee scooter wins by-far. These devices glide and assist users in moving, while crutches rely on the upper-body strength of the user to carry the weight of their afflicted leg.
Which scooter is best for senior citizens? ›- The Best Mobility Scooters of 2023.
- Pride Mobility Revo 2.0 3-Wheel Scooter.
- Pride Mobility Revo 2.0 4-Wheel Scooter.
- Pride Mobility Victory 10.2 3-Wheel Scooter.
- Ewheels DL-SR Scooter.
- Ewheels EW-24 Scooter.
- Drive Medical Phoenix HD 4 Scooter.
- Golden Technologies Buzzaround LX 3-Wheel Scooter.
Don't! Wheeled devices and stairs have never been a good pairing. It's highly advised to avoid trying to lift or carry your knee scooter through stairs when you're injured, especially during your non-weight bearing period.
What is the most common injury on a scooter? ›Lacerations and road rash are extremely common in accidents where riders are thrown from their scooter to the ground. When riders fall off their scooters, they often scrape their skin on the pavement, which can cause severe lacerations or road rash.
Does walking prevent blood clots in legs? ›
If you're stuck sitting for a long time -- like in a plane or a car for 4 or more hours -- getting up and walking for 5 minutes each hour helps prevent another bout of DVT.
What are the warning signs of blood clots? ›- Difficulty breathing.
- Faster than normal or irregular heartbeat.
- Chest pain or discomfort, which usually worsens with a deep breath or coughing.
- Coughing up blood.
- Very low blood pressure, lightheadedness, or fainting.
A knee scooter should be used to get from point A to point B, then straighten the knee and elevate the leg to control swelling. So as you see, the knee scooter is not without drawbacks. However, when someone is unable to bear weight during injury recovery (which is usually 8 weeks or more), no perfect option exists.
Can a knee scooter hurt your knee? ›Remember that your knee should be at a 90-degree angle, so adjust the device until you find the right setting. If your knee rest is set too high, it can cause too much strain on your knee. This can make it challenging to walk properly and use your healthy leg.
What can go wrong with a mobility scooter? ›- The batteries no longer recognise the charger when it is connected.
- Your mobility scooter doesn't cover as much distance in a single charge as it used to.
- Your mobility scooter stops at random intervals.
- The battery is no longer able to hold a full charge.
- The battery drops faster than usual.
Range, battery problems, charging time and more.
What to know before buying a knee scooter? ›- Weight and height capacity make sure the knee walker you are purchasing will actually work for you. ...
- Turning Radius make sure the knee walker has an adequate turning radius. ...
- Can the knee walker be used outside?
The knee rest platform (or the whole knee scooter for that matter) is not designed to be sat on. Under no circumstances should one operate a knee scooter while sitting down. There is another mobility device that serves that purpose, but more on that in a bit.
Are scooters hard on knees? ›As scooting is low impact on joints, it is the perfect way to keep fit without running the risk of causing further damage. Active rehabilitation is a popular approach to injury recovery and prevention, and a kick scooter is a perfect way for you to embrace it!
Is riding a scooter better than walking? ›Scooting will help you get that increased heart rate that walking doesn't quite achieve, and will help much more with your overall strength, balance, and endurance. Taking up scooting for fitness brings the same benefits as any other cardio without the heightened pressure on your joints.
What is the best walking aid for knee injury? ›
Knee Walker: The knee walker is simple to use, and one of the easiest ways to get around safely and quickly without placing any weight on your legs. This is the best option for people that have a hard time using crutches, and don't want to be slowed down by a walker.
Will Medicare pay for a ride on scooter? ›Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers power-operated vehicles (scooters), walkers, and wheelchairs as durable medical equipment (DME). Medicare helps cover DME if: The doctor treating your condition submits a written order stating that you have a medical need for a wheelchair or scooter for use in your home.
How do I choose the right scooter? ›Look for a high-quality build, from a high-quality brand, with smaller wheels. Smaller wheels are especially important if your commute is short and/or you need to carry your scooter on public transport. However, if you're looking for comfort, choose a scooter with a large, low deck.
Which scooter is best value for money? ›- Honda Activa 6G. Price. Rs. 74,536 - 80,537* Offers. ...
- Ola S1. Price. Rs. 1.33 Lakh* ...
- Honda Dio. Price. Rs. 68,625 - 74,626* ...
- Price. Rs. 69,990 - 85,673* Offers. ...
- Price. Rs. 77,900 - 89,500* Offers. ...
- TVS NTORQ 125. Price. Rs. 80,986 - 1 Lakh* ...
- TVS iQube Electric. Price. Rs. 1.61 - 1.61 Lakh* ...
- Ather 450X. Price. Rs. 1.19 - 1.42 Lakh*
Properly fitting your knee scooter to you:
Adjust the height of the knee rest so the knee is at 90 degrees, the knee should not be acutely bent. Adjust height of hand rest to fall around the height of the belly button or waist.
Like motorcycles, scooters lack a protective frame, seat belts, airbags, and other safety features found in passenger vehicles. This means that even at relatively low speeds, the rider could be severely injured if they are struck by a vehicle, collide with an object, or encounter a hazard in the road.
How do you safely Fall on a scooter? ›...
If you feel like you're losing balance, remember these tips:
- Crouch down so there's shorter distance to fall.
- Try to land on fleshy parts of your body.
- Try to roll as you fall so your arms don't absorb all the impact.
- Try to relax rather than tensing up.
Vehicle Hits Scooter Rider
If a driver has hit you because of their own negligence, the driver is at fault in this scenario. Since the driver is at fault, the liability coverage of their car insurance will be responsible for covering the rider's medical bills and any repairs needed for the scooter.
Raise your feet slightly off the floor. With your toes upward, rotate the ankles clockwise slowly and hold for a few seconds then return to starting position and repeat 10 times. After that, rotate the ankles anti-clockwise slowly and hold for a few seconds then return to starting position and repeat 10 times.
What is the best sleeping position to prevent blood clots? ›“The added weight of the uterus further compresses the vein.” She suggests sleeping on your left side to improve circulation, and avoid sleeping on your back. "Elevate legs at end of the day and get a good pair of compression stockings if you get any swelling or varicose veins,” she says.
How should I sleep to avoid blood clots in my legs? ›
Raise your feet, especially when sleeping
Keeping your feet elevated in the evenings while relaxing and while sleeping can help promote healthy circulation which may decrease the risk of deep vein thrombosis – especially if one you suffer from varicose vein disease.
A blood clot in a leg vein may cause pain, warmth and tenderness in the affected area. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling. Sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms.
What are symptoms of a blood clot behind the knee? ›- swelling in the knee or leg.
- leg pain or tenderness that may feel similar to a cramp.
- reddish skin discoloration.
- the leg being warm to the touch.
It's also worth mentioning that the most common symptom after a blood clot is exhaustion and fatigue. So, be kind to yourself and rest when you need to. For the first couple of months, you might not feel like yourself; you might feel like resting is all you can do, and that's okay because that's part of this disease.
Can you take a knee scooter in the shower? ›The iWALk Crutch is a hands-free, pain-free crutch that solves the limitations of bulky knee scooters. It is lightweight, so it is easy to transport, and as an extension of your leg, it is easy to navigate very small spaces. In fact, you can even use your iWALK Crutch in the shower!
How do you protect your knee on a knee scooter? ›If you are looking for extra comfort, consider purchasing a knee pad cover instead of using something like a towel on your scooter's knee rest. A cover on the knee pad can provide extra comfort, circulate air around your leg, and prevent your leg from sticking to the pad.
How do you get off the toilet after knee surgery? ›An elevated toilet seat with a safety frame and grab bars makes sitting down and getting off the toilet easier following a knee replacement. The grab bars will also prevent you from using nearby towel racks or toilet paper holders as assistive devices.
Do I need a raised toilet seat after knee replacement? ›The toilet seat should be at least as high as the crease of the back of your knee. If it is not, get a raised toilet seat. The toilet seat should have armrests on it or you should have a vanity close on one side and/or a grab bar on the other side. Transferring to the toilet is the same as transferring to a chair.
Can a knee scooter cause a blood clot? ›In the Military Health System database, the use of a knee scooter following lower extremity injury or surgery is associated with a higher incidence of DVT compared to the 2015 NSQIPS incidence of DVT following major orthopedic surgery (0.80% vs 0.55%), and is most frequently diagnosed within 30 days of scooter ...
Are knee scooters good for you? ›Overall, knee scooters are a great option for someone who has a long-term leg injury, co-occurring mobility issues, or any other more severe physical limitations and is seeking to get a mobility aid that'll offer more comfort. Seniors like to choose them because of their muscle weakness.
Is it worth getting a scooter? ›
Particularly when weighing up between a scooter or a bike, the former is significantly less expensive as well as being much more fuel efficient. Scooters also don't tend to need much maintenance after purchasing, so they're cheaper in the long run than a motorcycle or car.
Are scooters worth the money? ›While an electric scooter will cost you initially, the savings it provides most commuters is totally worth it. Whether it's a few miles/kilometers a day or completely replacing your car, adding a scooter to your life saves money and time, and more importantly, it can make your commute one of the best parts of your day.
Do knee scooters hurt your knee? ›Remember that your knee should be at a 90-degree angle, so adjust the device until you find the right setting. If your knee rest is set too high, it can cause too much strain on your knee. This can make it challenging to walk properly and use your healthy leg.
What do I need to know before buying a scooter? ›In addition to price, top speed, weight, and maximum load, evaluate the electric scooter's battery range, motor power, braking system, and tires. If you're going to be commuting by scooter, look for one that's at least 250 watts. Experts recommend pneumatic (i.e. air-filled) tires over solid ones for better rides.
How long will a scooter last? ›On average, e-scooters in a ride-share fleet last for 9 to 18 months, while personal ones last for up to 3 years. The efficiency of a personal e-scooter reduces after the first 2 years, but with proper care and maintenance, you'll still be cruising your scooter for up to 3 years or even more.
Are scooters safer? ›It's easy to assume scooters are safer due to their smaller size and lower speed, but this is a misconception. The truth is that scooters can be just as dangerous as motorcycles. The top speed of most electric scooters is 15 miles per hour, while 50 cc scooters (also known as mopeds) can reach 30 to 45 miles per hour.
Can you sit and ride a knee scooter? ›The knee rest platform (or the whole knee scooter for that matter) is not designed to be sat on. Under no circumstances should one operate a knee scooter while sitting down. There is another mobility device that serves that purpose, but more on that in a bit.