U.S. National Library of MedicineNational Institutes of Health
Skip navigation
MedlinePlus Trusted Health Information for You MedlinePlus Trusted Health Information for You MedlinePlus Trusted Health Information for You
  FAQs Site Map About MedelinePlus Contact Us
español

Printer-friendly version E-mail this page to a friend
Photograph of a wheelchair
  • Related Topics

  • Go Local

    • Services and providers for Mobility Aids in the U.S.
  • Languages

Also called: Ambulation devices

Mobility aids help you walk or move from place to place if you are disabled or have an injury. They include crutches, canes, walkers, wheelchairs and motorized scooters. You may need a walker or cane if you are at risk of falling. If you need to keep your body weight off your foot, ankle or knee, you may need crutches. You may need a wheelchair or a scooter if an injury or disease has left you unable to walk.

Choosing these devices takes time and research. You should be fitted for crutches, canes and walkers. If they fit, these devices give you support, but if they don't fit, they can be uncomfortable and unsafe.

Basics Learn More Multimedia & Cool Tools
  • No links available
  • No links available
Research Reference Shelf For You