How do you improve your rollator posture and gait?

Walking with a rollator can be tricky if you have the handles too high or too low. You are likely bent over if you walk with rollator handles set too low, causing pain in your neck and back. Having the grips set a bit too high causes you to walk behind the rollator, not having the proper support from the device. 

A bent-over walking position is often caused by the seat of conventional rollators, which is too close to the legs, and there is not enough space for the legs when walking. As a result, you have to walk too far behind. It would be best to have a rollator, where you can slide the seat forward to take a step into the rollator to position the grips closer to your hips.  Walking with the correct rollator walking technique and posture isn't hard. But it does involve the correct type of rollator and being mindful of how you move. 

Tips for walking properly with a rollator 

Walking with a rollator is an activity that not only engages your legs, but it involves your entire body. 

Keep your head up

Imagine your spine extending up through the top of your head like a string. You want that string to remain completely straight at all times when you're walking; focus on shifting your hips and shoulders and the top of your head so that they're all in line. This technique may help you from dropping your head down towards the chest while you walk. Keep your eyes and gaze forward. Focus on a spot about 7 to 10 metres ahead of you while you walk. It helps you to keep the position standing tall. A walker with big wheels will better help you walk with your head up. Since you don't need to watch where the front wheels are going and if they are going to a complete stop making you fall over. Big rollator wheels or big rollator wheels with climbing capability are better since you can walk more relaxedly, not watching if the front wheel manages the outdoor terrain.

Lengthen your spine

Focus on elongating your back while you walk. Avoid hunching, stooping, or leaning forward, which can stress your neck and back muscles.

Roll your shoulders

Your shoulders also play a crucial role in your walking posture and rollator walking technique.  If your shoulders are tense or hunched forward, it might be a sign that you are walking with, straining your muscles and joints in your shoulders, neck, and upper back. Keep your shoulders loose and relaxed, not tense toward your ears or slouched forward. Do shoulder shrugs occasionally while walking with your rollator to keep your shoulders loose and the head in the proper position.

Engage your core

Your core muscles also play an essential role when you're walking and help you move more comfortably. It can aid you in maintaining balance and stability; if you take each step, focus on tightening and engaging your core muscles by pulling your belly button toward your spine. 

Step from heel to toe

Maintain a steady heel-to-toe gait. It would help if you struck the ground heel first, rolling through to your toe, and then pushing out of step with your toe. It will get you to walk better, avoiding flat-footed steps or striking the ground with your toes.