A walking frame, otherwise known as the Zimmer Frame, is a marvellous invention that provides stability whilst walking. Zimmer frames can help you keep your independence if you are struggling with mobility, whilst these aids are popular amongst the elderly, children and adults also use them if in need of support after surgery. Walking frames started appearing in health and care settings in the 1950s, and have grown in popularity ever since.
So you might be wondering ‘who invented the Zimmer Frame?’, we will discuss the interesting history behind this wonderful aid below…
Why Might a Person Need to Use a Walking Frame?
The walking frame is a very useful invention. But, why might someone use a walking frame instead of other mobility aids such as a mobility scooter? Here are some of the reasons…
- If a person is unsteady on the feet, and needs extra support, but not to the extent of needing a mobility scooter or wheelchair.
- Walking frames are ideal for people who are at risk of falling when they are out and about.
- If a person struggles with lower body mobility, then a walking frame can provide them with extra strength.
- Rollators are great for people who struggle with mobility and may need to take a rest on the installed seat.
- Zimmer frames can be useful for people of any age who are recovering from surgery, and their bodies are weaker than usual.
William Cribbs Robb
Aids that look similar to walking frames can be seen throughout history. For example, a model that resembles a walking frame can be spotted on an Egyptian terracotta pot in the British Museum in London. A walking frame can also be seen in a painting by Hieronymus Bosch, which originates from the 16th century. See the painting here.
Whilst spotted throughout history, the walking frame did not take off in popularity until the modern walking frame was invented by William Cribbes Robb in the UK. In the latter half of the 1940s, William Cribbes Robb created the walking frame, which was a basic yet effective design.
If you are looking to purchase a walking frame today, then check out Millercare’s blog post ‘The Best Walking Frames in 2020’ to find out more about the best model for you.
Are you looking for the best mobility aids in the North West? Visit one of Millercare’s stores today, or order online!
Zimmer Holdings
An American company called Zimmer Holdings improved on the William Cribbes Robb model to create the ‘Zimmer Frame’, which was significantly more effective and easier to use.
The company and main inventor behind the design, Norman Metcalfe, went from manufacturing aluminium splints to more advanced walking frames. The new design has two wheels attached to the front two legs, which makes it easier for users to move and go at a quicker pace. The two small wheels are what make a Zimmer Frame different from a walking frame.
The Zimmer Frame transformed mobility aids in the 20th century, and is still massively popular in the 21st century, due to the many benefits that they offer, such as:
- Safety: Zimmer Frames provide the user with added safety. Users can get from a to b without the worry of falling over or losing balance. Falls or injuries if you have limited mobility or are elderly can be very dangerous, so it is important to take the correct precautions.
- Independence: One of the greatest things about Zimmer Frames is that they allow the user to keep their independence for as long as they can. It means they can go out and about, whether that is for shopping or to socialise, without help from others.
- Exercise: Another great thing about Zimmer Frames is that they allow users to exercise, as they are still able to walk for an extended duration of time without assistance. This is an exercise that they might not have been able to do without the aid.
Another important point about Zimmer Frames is that there are many variations of the model on the market. At Millercare, we sell frames of different sizes e.g. small, medium and large. The products that we sell are highly adjustable. For example, Coppers Domestic Zimmer Frame is a lightweight aluminium model that is extremely durable and can take weights up to 25 stone. The frame is height-adjustable, so the user can personalise it to their preferences and needs.
Swede Aina Wifalk
Swede Aina Wifalk took the walking frame even more into the future, by inventing the ‘rollator’ in 1978. The Swedish scientist and inventor suffered from polio and was very passionate about improving the lives of disabled people and those who suffered from mobility issues.
The rollator has the same frame as a walking frame, however, it has three or four large wheels attached to it. The model also has handlebars and a seat. The seat is for when the user needs rest to re-energise.
Rollators are extremely popular walking frames and are used by many people around the world. These models offer more function and safety compared to the traditional walking frames.
Similarly to Zimmer Frames, there are many different variations of rollators on the market to match individual needs. Before you purchase this aid, you should consider the following when choosing which individual model you would like:
- Will you be using the rollator indoors or outdoors? Some rollator models are only suitable for indoor use, so double-check the specifications before you buy.
- How much are you willing to spend on the rollator? At Millercare, we have models to match all budgets, starting at £64.60 for a basic model ‘Days Four Wheeled Rollator’ and going up to £799.99 for ‘Topro Rollz Motion Rollator and Wheelchair’.
- Do you want a shopping basket installed on the model? Many rollators have the option to install a shopping basket on it, so if you will be using it when you are out and about, this might be extremely helpful!
- What are your height and weight requirements? Ensure that your height and weight requirements are met with the rollator. You can read more about this in the specifications for the rollator.
