Fed up with my walker. Need help.

I am recovering slowly but well from my last relapse.  

Great news is that I'm graduating from the wheelchair to the metal framed walker.  Bad news is that the tennis balls I use on the back legs of the walker are starting to cost me a mint to replace.  I'm replacing them like every 10 days and that was before I used the walker much.  

Has anyone ever used this type of walker? If so, what can I do to make these expensive tennis balls last a little longer? Or maybe there is another product out there I don't know about to put on the back legs. Help!

I know the rollator is more popular walker, but I have not been safety approved for one yet.  PT says I'm not ready for the Cadillac yet and to just stick to the Buick for now.  

Thanks.

Julie

[rendean]

Found these at Amazon. They are plastic glides. It shows pic on site. Can't vouch for their durability but it is a substitute. Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Duro-Med-510-1031-0000-Universal-Walker-Glides/dp/B0009STN0G

Product Features

    * Universal walker ski glides are designed to fit most 1" and 7/8" standard walker extension legs
    * They are designed to glide smoothly across most floor surfaces
    * Easy to install and made of durable nylon or composite plastic
    * Will last up to three times longer than conventional walker glides under normal use

Drive Medical supply has their version of a tennis ball glide with a one year warranty at $27 . Not sure which product is better.

I hope something works better for you!
Ren

[HVAC]

Have you tried racket balls they are more durable. Blue rubber. I buy them for my dogs who can destroy tennis balls easily.

[rendean]

Found these at Amazon. They are plastic glides. It shows pic on site. Can't vouch for their durability but it is a substitute. Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Duro-Med-510-1031-0000-Universal-Walker-Glides/dp/B0009STN0G

Product Features

    * Universal walker ski glides are designed to fit most 1" and 7/8" standard walker extension legs
    * They are designed to glide smoothly across most floor surfaces
    * Easy to install and made of durable nylon or composite plastic
    * Will last up to three times longer than conventional walker glides under normal use

Drive Medical supply has their version of a tennis ball glide with a one year warranty at $27 . Not sure which product is better.

I hope something works better for you!
Ren

[supermum_ms]

Ren you beat me to it, walker ski glides (lol) you can see 3 types of 'caps' on this web site...

http://www.qualitymedicalsupplies.com/page/QMS/CTGY/MA-GC

I was also going to mention trying a rubber ball instead of the tennis balls but Alex probably told you a more indurable type of ball.

Cheers.....JJ

[Sarahsmom46]

Thanks you guys. These are great ideas.  I have seen the ski glides at a med store here in town selling for 9.95 and they said only last about a month, so I'll look into the products you guys mentioned as well as the racket balls.  

Appreciate you guys putting me in the right direction.  :)

Julie

[Quixotic1]

The little ski glides are fantastic!

Q

[michelleric]

I dont have any ideas for you but I just wanted to tell you how happy I am to hear the you are on on to the walker instead of the chair. Way to go!
Love,
Michelle

[essdipity]

Have you tried any local schools or colleges, tennis facilites or country clubs? They often have tennis balls too worn for the sport but perfect for you.

Good luck,
ess

[Lulu54]

Ess beat me to the answer - makes friends with the local pro.  They always have tons of balls left between that are flat and no longer playable.  good luck with finding this budget stretcher! - L

[Sarahsmom46]

What a great idea you guys.  Sarah was suggesting something similar but we never got around to it.  I'll follow through though as we have tons of tennis players around hre and I'm sure I'll get lucky and find some balls destined to go to the garbage.  

I am also going to give the gliders a try.  I was told hey only last about a month and are a bit expensive if that's he case.  

But mostly, I need to shed the walker and that is my ultimate goal.

Thanks again you guys.  

Julie