Product Review: iWalk 2.0

Recovery from any significant muscle or joint injury can be a difficult process, especially when the injury involves the lower extremity.  Prolonged periods of non weight-bearing usually involve crutches that make it very challenging to be able to keep up with your regular daily activities.  My recent Achilles tendon rupture made this all too clear.  That feeling of having to rely on others is not easy for people who enjoy being active.  Since my injury, I’ve looked for ways to maintain some degree of independence.  The iWalk 2.0 is a hands-free crutch that allows you to move around while still being able to use your hands.  This may sound trivial, but when you’ve lost the use of your hands because they’re tied up with crutches, it can be a real lifesaver.  The iWalk is easy to put together, fairly easy to take on and off and most importantly, allows you to use your hands while moving.  You are able to carry things from one room to another, comfortably work at a counter and even prepare meals.  Despite all the advantages, there are some drawbacks.  The straps often have to be quite tight to give you the stability you need when walking.  This can become uncomfortable after some time on the crutch.  And while going upstairs is easy, walking down a flight of stairs can be difficult.  In the end though, the pros far outweigh the cons.  This crutch is available online through Amazon and other retailers in Canada.  I purchased mine from OrthoMed Canada, a reliable source for braces and supports that our office has used in the past.  If you or someone you know has to be non weight-bearing for any significant length of time, this product is absolutely worth considering.