When you’re recovering from a foot or ankle injury, getting around is suddenly a daily challenge. Pain, fatigue, awkward movement – it all adds up. Crutches are often the first recommendation, but they’re not the only option.
If you’re looking for a way to stay mobile without the strain, a knee scooter (also called a knee walker) could be a better fit.
Here’s what to know about how knee scooters compare to crutches, and how to find the best option for your recovery.
What is a knee scooter (knee walker)?
A knee scooter is a wheeled mobility aid that lets you rest your injured leg on a padded platform while using your healthy leg to push forward. It typically has handlebars with brakes and adjustable height settings. It’s designed to make getting around easier for people who can’t put weight on a foot or ankle.
How a knee scooter can help
If you’ve ever used crutches, you know they can be tiring, painful, and awkward – especially if you’re navigating busy spaces or trying to carry something.
A knee scooter solves some of those problems:
- It gives you a smoother, more stable way to move around
- You don’t need to use your upper body to support your weight
- It helps reduce pressure on your hands, wrists, and underarms
- Many people find it far less exhausting than crutches
For people recovering from a broken foot, surgery, or a tendon injury, a knee scooter can help you move more freely with less discomfort.
How to use a knee scooter
1. Adjust the height
The handlebars and knee platform should be adjusted to your height. The handlebars should sit at about waist level, and your injured leg should rest comfortably on the padded platform with your knee bent at a 90-degree angle.
2. Step on with your good leg first
Stand next to the scooter and hold the handlebars. Step onto the scooter with your uninjured leg, then place your injured leg onto the padded platform.
3. Push yourself forward
Use your good leg to gently push forward, much like riding a kid’s scooter. Start slow until you feel balanced.
4. Use the brakes for control
Knee scooters have hand brakes like a bicycle. Use them to slow down, especially when turning or on slight inclines.
5. Take corners slowly
Always turn carefully and avoid leaning too far — knee scooters are stable, but sharp movements can affect balance.
6. Keep it to smooth surfaces
Knee scooters work best on flat, even surfaces like indoors, sidewalks, or shopping centres. Avoid stairs, gravel, or rough terrain.
Frequently asked questions about knee scooters
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Can you sit on a knee scooter?
No. Knee scooters are designed for kneeling, not sitting. The padded platform supports your injured leg while you remain standing and push forward with your good leg. Sitting on the scooter could make it unstable.
Can I rent a knee scooter instead of buying one?
Yes. At Access Abilities, we offer knee scooters for rent or purchase. Renting is a great option if you only need it short-term, ike post-surgery or during recovery from a foot or ankle injury.
How do I know if a knee scooter is right for me?
The best way to find out is to try one in store. Our team can help you test it, adjust the fit, and compare it with other mobility aids like crutches or walkers. A knee scooter works well if you can balance on your good leg and your injury doesn’t involve the knee or thigh.
Are knee scooters covered by insurance or health programs?
Many extended health plans may offer partial coverage for medically necessary mobility aids. Access Abilities is an authorized vendor for programs including the Assistive Devices Program (ADP), ODSP, Veterans Affairs, and more. Our staff can help guide you through your options.
Can I use a knee scooter outdoors?
Yes, but they work best on smooth, flat surfaces. They’re great for indoors, malls, sidewalks, and paved paths, but not suitable for stairs, gravel, or uneven ground.
When Crutches Might Still Be Better
There are times when crutches might still be the right choice. If you have to navigate stairs regularly, or if your injury involves the knee or thigh, crutches may be safer. Crutches are also easier to transport and may be a more affordable short-term solution for some.
Still unsure? Here is a comprehensive comparison of Knee Scooters v Crutches that may help:
| Feature/Concern | Knee Scooter (Knee Walker) | Crutches |
Best used when | You need comfort, stability, and freedom from arm strain | You need to navigate stairs or uneven terrain often |
| Weight-bearing restrictions | Ideal for non-weight-bearing foot or ankle injuries | Also works for non-weight-bearing lower limb injuries |
| Pain and strain on body | No underarm pressure or wrist strain | Can cause underarm, hand, and wrist pain |
| Ease of use | Easy to steer and balance with minimal upper body effort | Requires upper body strength and balance |
| Energy use | Less tiring for longer distances | Requires upper body strength and balance |
| Navigating stairs or uneven ground | Not suitable | Can be used on stairs and rougher terrain |
| Hands-free capability | Easier to carry items (e.g. with a backpack or basket) | Hands are occupied at all times |
| Posture and alignment | Keeps upright posture, reduces hunching | May cause slouching or misalignment |
| Storage and portability | Bulkier; takes more space | Lightweight and easy to carry |
| Cost | Higher upfront (rental available at Access Abilities) | More affordable short-term (also can rent) |
Try a Knee Scooter In Store
The best way to know if a knee scooter is right for you is to try one. At Access Abilities, we stock knee scooters for both rent and purchase, and our team will help you test them, adjust the height, and explain how the brakes work. We’ll walk you through everything, so you can leave feeling confident.
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