Discharge Instructions: Using a Walker

Your healthcare provider as prescribed a walker for you. To use your walker, you need to learn a new gait, or way to walk. Your healthcare provider will tell you to use either a non-weight-bearing gait (putting no weight on one leg and foot) or a weight-bearing gait (putting weight on both legs and feet).

Guidelines for use

Tips for use include the following: 

• Remove throw rugs, electrical cords, and anything else that may cause you to fall.

• Arrange your household to keep the items you need handy. Keep everything else out of the way.

• Use a backpack, fanny pack, apron, or pockets to carry things so you keep your hands free.

Non-weight-bearing method

Steps for this method include:

• Hold your injured (weaker) foot off the floor.

• Lift the walker (roll it if you’re using a wheeled walker).

• Move the walker forward about 12 inches.

• Support your weight on your hands.

• Swing your good (stronger) foot forward to the center of the walker.

Weight-bearing method

Steps for this method include:

• Roll the walker (lift it if you’re using a walker without wheels).

• Move the walker forward about 12 inches.

• Step forward with your injured leg, new joint, or weaker side first.

• Use the walker to help you keep your balance as you take the step.

• Bring your other foot forward to the center of the walker.