Survey of the Actual Usage of Children's Walkers in Japan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to clarify the actual usage of children's walkers in Japan. Parents and experts （i.e. physical therapists）, who generally select walkers, participated in the questionnaire-based survey. We asked them basic information, such as the kind of walkers currently in use and the issues associated with them. The results revealed that walkers are used for gait training and improving physical function in hospitals and in school. On the other hand, not many people use walkers at home or outdoors. The reasons for not using walkers at home and outdoors include issues with walker size, adjustment function, operability, and stability. The results of our survey clearly show that there is a need for new models, not only for gait training, but also for daily life indoors and outdoors.