How to Safety Use Your Walkers

Published : 2016-12-13

How to Use Walkers?

Walkers

If you have had total knee or total hip replacement, a walker will provide the most stability.

If you have had total knee or total hip replacement surgery, or you have another significant problem, you may need more help with balance and walking than you can get with crutches or a cane. A pickup walker with four legs will give you the most stability. A walker lets you keep all or some of your weight off of your lower body as you take steps. With a walker, you use your arms to support some of your body weight. As your strength and endurance get better, you may gradually be able to carry more weight in your legs.

Positioning

  • When standing up straight, the top of your walker should reach to the crease in your wrist.
  • Your elbows should be slightly bent when you hold the handgrips of the walker.
  • Keep your back straight. Don't hunch over the walker.
  • Check to be sure the rubber tips on your walker's legs are in good shape. If they become uneven or worn, you can purchase new tips at a drug store or medical supply store.

Walking

First, position your walker about one step ahead of you, making sure that all four legs of the walker are on even ground. With both hands, grip the top of the walker for support and move your injured leg into the middle area of the walker. Do not step all the way to the front. Push straight down on the handgrips of the walker as you bring your good leg up so it is even with your injured leg. Always take small steps when you turn and move slowly.

Sitting

To sit, back up until your legs touch the chair. Use your hands to feel behind you for the seat of the chair. Slowly lower yourself into the chair.

To stand up, push yourself up using the strength of your arms and grasp the walker's handgrips. Do not pull on or tilt the walker to help you stand up.

Stairs

Never climb stairs or use an escalator with your walker.

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