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Using a Walker

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Topic Overview

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continued...

Try this first with another person nearby to steady you if needed.

Stand as close to the edge as you can while keeping all four legs of the walker on the surface you're standing on.
When you have your balance, move the walker up or down, to the surface you are moving to.
Push straight down on the handles for balance and to take weight off your injured leg.
If you are going up, step up with your stronger leg first, then bring your weaker or injured leg up to meet it. If you are going down, step down with your weaker leg first, then bring your stronger leg down to meet it. Remember "up with the good, and down with the bad" to help you lead with the correct leg.
Get your balance again before you start walking.

To use your walker on stairs:

Most people should not use a walker on stairs. Talk with your physical therapist to see whether it is appropriate for you to use your walker on the stairs. If it is, have your physical therapist show you how to do this correctly.

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WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: April 08, 2011

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.