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Mobility

Common mobility problems

Lesson: 1 of 4
Topic: 2 of 3
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People can have difficulty moving around for many reasons.

Some common reasons are outlined below.

Frailty or weakness

A person who is frail or weak may find it hard to balance and move around.

Pain or stiffness

Pain or stiffness can limit how much a person is able to move around.

For example arthritis (painful joints) may stop a person from being able to stand up or walk.

Cali, an older woman, standing with support of a walking frame.

Meet Cali

Cali is frail and has arthritis. She often has pain in her hip and knees which makes walking painful.

Paralysis

Paralysis is the lack of ability to move a body part.

For example, people with a spinal cord injury usually have paralysed legs. A person with paralysed legs cannot stand up or walk around.

Peter, a man, sitting in his wheelchair with his hands on the push rims.

Remember Peter?

Peter has a spinal cord injury and is paralysed below his waist. Peter’s mobility problem is permanent, as he will not be able to move around again without extra support.

Amputation

People with leg or foot amputations are likely to use mobility assistive products to move around.

Asif, a man, moving with two elbow crutches. His right leg is amputated below the knee.

Remember Asif?

Asif has a right below knee amputation.

Poor balance or coordination

People with poor balance or coordination may have difficulty moving around. They may also be at risk of falling. Advice about suitable shoes can help reduce the risk of falling.

People with very poor balance or coordination may not be able to sit upright or move around at all without support.

Aleisha, a young girl, standing with a posterior walker which is a walking frame with wheels that supports her from behind. She is wearing an orthosis on each leg and suitable shoes.

Meet Aeisha

Aeisha has cerebral palsy and finds it hard to coordinate and control her movements. She needs assistance to move around.

You will learn more about suitable shoes in Lesson three.

Problems with feeling (sensation)

Problems with feeling in a person’s feet or legs can limit mobility and increase the risk of them falling.

A person with problems with feeling in their feet is also at risk of injury and/or developing a foot wound.

In the next topic you will find more information about foot wounds.

Always encourage anyone with problems with feeling in their feet to wear suitable shoes.

Mathias, an older man sitting on a bench with his rollator in front of him.

Remember Mathias?

Mathias is frail and has problems with feeling in his feet due to diabetes. He uses a rollator to walk safely.

Being as mobile as possible is very important for good health, inclusion and participation.

People who have mobility difficulties can maximise their mobility when they have:

  • The right mobility assistive products
  • Rehabilitation (if needed)
  • An accessible environment.

Watch this short video to hear Roberto explain what being mobile means for him.