A standard walker may be the right device to help you walk safely. Your physical therapist can show you how to use a walker properly and can determine if the walker is the best assistive device for you.
When using a walker for the first time, you should consult your healthcare provider and physical therapist to ensure that you are using the correct device for your condition and that you are using the walker properly. Remember to be cautious if you are not allowed to put full weight on your leg because of injury or surgery; do so may delay your healing.
What Could Happen If You Do Not Walk Properly With Your Walker?
If you are using a walker and you fail to use it properly, it may tip over. If this happens, you may tip over with the walker as well, and this could lead to injury. Learning to walk properly with your walker can keep you safe while you are moving around.
Let’s take a look at how to properly walk with a walker as an assistive device.
First, lift the walker and move it forward about an arm’s length. Be sure that all four legs contact the floor at the same time to avoid tipping the walker. Do not place the walker on the back two legs; all four legs must be in contact with the floor.
Be sure you are not too far away from the walker either. Your foot should land squarely inside the walker. Standing too far away from the walker can cause it to tip backward, leading to falls.
Make sure you are completely within the walker at this point. Too far back, forward, or to one side may lead to loss of balance or falling. This may cause injury.
It is important not to step too close to the front crossbar of the walker to avoid falling. Your body should remain in the central part of the walker. Also, be sure that all four feet of the walker contact the floor at the same time to avoid tipping the walker over.
Your physical therapist should be able to show you exercises to strengthen your legs and to work on balance to make walking with your walker easier and safer.
A Word From Verywell
By working closely with your healthcare provider and physical therapist, you can use the correct walker properly to ensure safe and independent walking.
