Hyperextension of knee coupled with unstable ankle

I know that my unstable ankle is somewhat responsible for the hyperextension/flexion of the knee problem I have. Is it time for a full leg brace? How would that work in wheelchair or on scooter? Anyone else in the same boat? Any suggestions on suitable orthotics would be very welcome. Take care all xx

Hi Rabbitnon… I really don’t know. Does the leg have to stay straight out… can’t think how you could manage on scooter or wheelchair. Try posting on Everyday Living… much bigger group and you might find someone with same problem. Have you tried googling… something like ‘full leg brace in wheelchair’ see what comes up. Wishing you the best of luck with it… really hope you get it sorted out. Pat xx

Look no further than a fixed Swedish Knee Cage.

.http://www.chaneco.co.uk/orthotic-product.asp?prodId=120&specialoffer=

Thanks for that info, Whammel.

Wheelchair Novice - help Anyone know where I can go to improve my wheelchair skills? Definitely need more guidance on cornering and kerb “bumping” Thanks Take care all xx

I haven’t tried curb bumping it’s to scary if no dropped curb I wouldn’t try. Good luck with the knee I go rigid when I have infection and negotiating the wheelchair is hard to do with a leg stick ing out.

Hi Don

Just a little but of advice that may help you, sorry if I am butting in.

If you want to get off the pavement and there is no dropped kerb, come off backwards, its safer that way, I do it all the time.

Hope this is useful.

Pam x

Gosh Pam …you are brave…well done ! Nina x

Hi Nina

Many moons ago when I first had my powerchair from wheelchair services, I was shown this technique by the technician, and now it is second nature.

Try it slowly with someone standing at the back of your chair, that way would give you confidence to do it.

Honestly, it ain’t that bad.

Pam x

Hi Pam, Next time I’m out I promise to give it a try! Have to say though it sounds very scary. I bought mine on eBay …so sadly no technician…maybe that’s the reason I still prefer my manual chair…I can turn on a sixpence…even taught my grandchildren to do Lewis Hamilton style donuts!! I love it …but don’t have the same feelings for the power chair. I feel that I control the manual chair but the power chair controls me. Sometimes I see folk on TV and it seems second nature to them and yet feels SO alien to me…and yet I love my little scooter too…odd isn’t it. Hope you are as ok as possible. Nina x

Hi Nina

I’ve used a powerchair for nugh on 20 years now, and that is why I said its second nature, but yes it does sound scary, and perhaps in the beginning was scary.

If you dont fancy doing it, it doesn’t matter, I just do it when there are no dropped curbs. If you could find the same infinity with your powerchair that you have with your manual, you would be away. Have the speed turned down low until you feel more confident, it really helps if your arms are weak.

You do what feels right for you to enjoy your freedom and independence.

I am ok (ish) thanks, hope you are as well.

Pam x