Therefore, you have been told that you will need to stay away from your foot or ankle for an extended period of time. This could be due to surgery, an injury, or a wound. If he has used crutches, he knows how difficult it can be to use them and the limitations they place on his lifestyle. Do not be condemned to crutches. You have options. Your health care provider may suggest a knee scooter or knee walker. You have searched the internet and you are left with even more questions.

This article will describe what a knee scooter is, features to consider with the device, and services to consider with the provider.

What is a knee scooter?

A knee scooter is a cart-like device with wheels that completely unloads (removes weight) from the user’s lower extremity while bearing weight on the knee. It is also commonly known as a knee walker.

Features to consider:

While all knee scooters are similar in basic function, there are important design features that directly impact safety, comfort, and mobility.

  • Does it turn? The original model required the user to lift the front to turn left or right. This required not only strength, but also balance, which can often be compromised due to medications (ie painkillers). Newer models turn like a bicycle to improve safety and ease of use. This feature is so vital that some insurance companies will not reimburse non-steerable (non-rotating) models and many carriers no longer offer them. Beware of models that use caster wheels similar to those found on a shopping cart (www.rolleraid.com), as they can unexpectedly move sideways (away from you), causing your legs to spread and even fall off.
  • How big are the wheels? The larger the wheels, the easier it will be to move across carpets or over uneven surfaces like cracks in sidewalks or door thresholds. The small wheels will stop abruptly when they encounter a crack or obstacle. Some insurance companies will not cover units with wheels less than five inches in diameter. Large or wide off-road tires are available, but these are rarely needed as they are intended for rough terrain or soft sand. The ideal standard is eight-inch wheels.
  • How stable is the unit? Safety is paramount in any unit. Stability comes from both the width of the unit and the offset of the knee deck. Higher-end models allow the knee platform to be easily moved towards the sound leg. Not only does this allow more of the unit to support the injured leg, it also prevents the pushing leg from kicking the knee scooter (an annoying, painful and potential hazard). Width can be judged by the distance between the front wheels, although wider is not always better. You’ll find units too wide to fit through a door (Kneal) or too narrow to be unstable (Invacare).
  • How adjustable and comfortable are the knee pads? Your needs may change as your cast or bandage adjusts, so it’s important to look for a unit with two adjustable pads. The ability to adjust the location of the pad can greatly affect your comfort. Avoid units that only offer a single fixed pad (Kneal or Wiel).
  • Does it fold for easy storage? Most units will fold flat for easy storage and transportation. They can be placed in the back seat of a car, in a trunk, or even in the first-class locker on an airplane. Beware of very large units (Kneal) which are too large for most cars and any aircraft.
  • Do I need tools to assemble? Make sure the knee scooter can be adjusted without tools. Surprisingly, some models (Invacare) and especially older units require keys (not included) to adjust their height and size.
  • What accessories are included? Think about what you might need: a purse, a phone, a book, a lunch, laundry, etc. Some knee scooters offer small black bags while others offer large removable baskets. Both could be useful for freeing up your hands while you’re on the go, but the removable basket has proven to be more useful and versatile.

Services to consider

Now that you know what to look for in the product, consider the vendor, as both price and service can vary widely.

  • rent or buy – If you only need the unit for a short time, renting may be an option. Rental prices range from $35-$80 per week and $100-$300 per month. Deposits can be very expensive, up to the full purchase price of the knee scooter. Look for providers that do not charge a deposit. Some providers will allow you to apply rental charges to your purchase in case you need it for longer than you originally thought. The purchase price of a new unit ranges from $400 to $800. If the purchase makes sense, you might consider a used or refurbished unit. Make sure it is safe and meets all manufacturer specifications.
  • Sure – Knee scooters are generically referred to as crutch alternatives by insurance companies under the code HCPC E0118. They may be covered for patients who must keep weight off their recovering foot or ankle AND cannot use crutches due to balance problems, upper body limitations, or other issues. While some providers will bill your insurance company, many will provide you with a blank letter of medical necessity for your doctor to complete. This will help you submit for refund consideration. Even if the knee scooter is not a paid benefit, it may count toward your deductible or may be charged to your health care spending account.
  • delivery and return – You can try to find a local supplier with knee scooters in stock. Styles, price, quality and service vary widely. Availability is limited and you may be placed on a waiting list. Even after finding a supplier, it may take three visits to their location during their business hours to order, pick up and return the unit. Some stores will deliver to your home or hospital for a fee. An increasingly attractive option is to order online and have the knee scooter delivered directly to your home, office or hospital room. Look for providers that offer free shipping. Once back on both feet, units can be easily returned via UPS or USPS mail. Having your knee scooter shipped directly to you is especially convenient if you are already injured, unable to drive, live in a rural area, have a busy schedule or other limitations.
  • Satisfaction guaranteed – Make sure you can return any knee scooter you rent or buy if it doesn’t fit your needs. Beware of providers that won’t even let you try it out or offer less than a three-day trial period.
  • Customer service – When you use your knee scooter and have a question or a need (which you will), who will you call? Working with an expert who specializes in crutch alternatives should ensure a better experience by having knowledgeable staff available to answer questions and share advice. You may be alone with a “big box” supplier that has everything from beds to urinals, with business hours that don’t match your needs.

In short, look for these for an ideal recovery:

  • Price
  • 8″ wheel
  • no deposit
  • Offset Knee Platform
  • Free and convenient shipping
  • Two adjustable knee pads
  • Rental fees apply to purchase
  • Folds for transport and storage.
  • Satisfaction guaranteed
  • No adjustment tools needed
  • Customer service
  • Large removable basket
  • Alternative Crutches Specialist
  • returns

Recovering from surgery or injury can be a difficult time full of unexpected challenges. Choosing a knee scooter that helps you stay off your foot or ankle can help you heal faster, more completely, and correctly. Choosing the knee scooter that best suits your individual needs from the provider that best serves you will allow you to maintain your active life, your lifestyle and your livelihood.