FAQ

Seven wheels allow you to swivel and manage uneven surfaces with more stability than standard walkers can offer. The U-shaped base promotes better posture by reducing the tendency to lean forward when walking.

Two features prevent that from happening. The hand brakes are configured as “pull-to-go”, in contrast to typical hand brakes. Also, a friction mechanism regulates the two large wheels on the base, according to the needs of the particular patient.

The U-Step offers more stability for anyone who requires a walker. Those with conditions such as Parkinson’s, MS, stroke, Ataxia or PSP often find that the U-Step is the only walker that provides maximum mobility for them.

The U-Step Neuro uses larger front casters to better manage uneven surfaces. It also folds and unfolds with a single latch instead of two levers, and it weighs three pounds less. We modified several other features, but the essential U-shaped base design and dimensions remain the same.

The LaserLight addresses a particular symptom: freezing gait, a condition often associated with Parkinson’s patients that inhibits leg movement due to neurological rather than muscular factors. The laser projects a bright line on the floor; this visual cue provides a stimulus that overcomes neurological-based freezing in most cases.

For those who require it, we offer the original U-Step built with a special frame that provides a lower seat and handlebar height range. While the standard 22-inch seat height helps the user stand up more easily, people with shorter legs may not be able to place their feet on the floor when seated at that height. The lower seat height of 19.5 inches accommodates someone whose lower leg length (from the heel to the back of the knee) is less than 18 inches.

We offer a customized handlebar that extends the maximum grip-to-floor height from 38 inches to 41 inches. We also offer a customized seat with larger dimensions than the standard seat.

Call In-Step Mobility at 1-800-558-7837. We can provide your physician with information about the U-Step, and we can check whether other physicians at the same location are already familiar with the walker.

If you currently receive therapy or medical care from a practitioner associated with a major facility, the facility’s Neurology or Physical Therapy department may have one available for demonstration.

Certain medical stores can show you a demonstration unit on their premises.

Your local Parkinson’s support group may also know who has a U-Step in your immediate area.

Call In-Step Mobility at 1-800-558-7837 for more information on how you can try out our products.

Medicare reviews each patient’s medical condition to determine whether the U-Step and U-Step Neuro, classified as advanced walkers, will provide mobility that a standard walker cannot provide. The criteria include “severe neurological disorder or other condition restricting the use of one hand”.
Other insurance plans may use the same criteria, or they may offer greater coverage, depending upon the particular plan.
Read Our Insurance Page for more information.

Most plans provide coverage according to terms similar to Medicare’s, though they may specify where to obtain the U-Step in order to qualify for coverage. Call In-Step Mobility at 1-800-558-7837 for assistance with your particular situation.

That is by design. When walking on ramps or uneven surfaces, the rear wheels stabilize you without hindering your progress. Their spring-loaded mounting can be locked, according to the user’s need.

The battery compartment inside the basket unscrews to open. Use two AA alkaline batteries oriented in the proper direction.

Over time, accumulated carpet fibers or pet hair may inhibit one or more caster wheels. In-Step provides replacement wheels for a modest charge. To remove a wheel, use a hammer as you would to remove a nail. To insert a wheel, apply force with a tool such as a rubber mallet.