Devices to Aid Mobility for those with Ankle Pain and Dysfunction
Orthoses
A wide variety of orthotic devices have been developed to aid walking for people with a range of ankle, foot and lower-leg issues. For people with talar OCL, one option that may be helpful is a dynamic AFO (ankle foot orthosis). This can provide support, limit movement at painful joints and offload some weight from the ankle and foot.
Photo Credit: English: Linda Hosek, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Knee Scooters
A knee scooter is a fairly inexpensive and readily available device that can allow for mobility without bearing weight on an affected ankle. Some people find them to offer some substantial advantages compared to crutches. On smooth surfaces such as roads and floors, a person with good balance on the device can move easily, and much more rapidly than by walking. The leg rest can also be used as a seat when stationary (for example when waiting in a queue). Some models may include a carrying basket. Disadvantages include when moving across uneven surfaces, or when injuries prevent bearing weight on the upper leg as well as the ankle.
Photo Credit: Jim.henderson, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Crutches
Crutches are inexpensive and readily available. Compared to a knee scooter, some people find them physically tiring and potentially painful in the armpit region. Some people find the design features of the Mobilegs brand of crutches make them substantially more comfortable than traditional crutches. Advantages of crutches compared to knee scooters include when moving across uneven surfaces, or when injuries prevent bearing weight on the upper leg as well as the ankle.
Photo Credit: Beyathesoccergirl, CC BY-SA 4.0