Tips for choosing and using walkers
A walker can make it easier to get around after surgery or after a broken bone in your foot or leg. A walker can also help if you have balance problems, arthritis, leg weakness or instability. A walker allows you to take pressure off your feet and legs when you move.
Types of walkers
Talk to your doctor, physical therapist, or another member of your healthcare team about the type of walker that is right for you. Options include:
- Standard walker. A standard walker is sometimes called a pick-up walker. It has four rubber-tipped feet. It doesn’t have wheels. This type of walker offers the most stability. You have to lift this walker to move it.
- Two-wheel walker. This walker has wheels on both front legs. This is useful if you need help supporting your weight when moving or if lifting a standard walker is difficult for you. It may be easier to stand completely upright with a two-wheel walker than with a standard walker. This can help improve posture and reduce the risk of falls.
- Four-wheel walker. This walker provides continuous balance support. Using a four-wheel walker can be helpful if you are unsteady on your feet. But it tends to be less stable than a standard walker. If endurance is an issue, this type of walker often has the option of sitting down.
- Three-wheel walker. This walker provides continuous balance support. But it’s lighter and easier to move than a four-wheel walker, especially in tight spaces.
- Knee pad. This walker features a knee platform, four wheels and a handle. To move, you place the knee of your injured leg on the platform and push the walker with your other leg. A knee brace is usually used for a short time when an ankle or foot problem makes walking difficult.
Selecting a handle
Most walkers come with plastic handles, but there are other choices as well. You may want to consider foam grips or soft covers, especially if your hands tend to sweat. If you have trouble gripping with your fingers, you may prefer a wider grip. Choosing the right grip reduces stress on your joints. Whichever handle you choose, make sure it is secure so that it does not slip while you use the walker.
Installing your walker
Adjust your walker so it fits your arms comfortably. This relieves stress on your shoulders and back. To find out if your walker is the right height, step into your walker and:
- Check your elbow. Keeping your shoulders relaxed, place your hands on the handles. Your elbows should be bent at a comfortable angle of about 15 degrees.
- Check your wrist height. Stand inside the walker and relax your arms at your sides. The top of the walker handle should line up with the crease on the inside of your wrist.
Move forward
If you need to place weight on the walker when moving, start by placing the walker about a step in front of you. Keep your back straight. Do not lean over the walker.
Enter the walker
Then, if one of your legs is injured or weaker than the other, place that leg in the middle of the walker first. Keep your foot behind the front legs of the walker. If you move too far forward, you risk losing your balance. Keep the walker still when you enter.
Walk with the other foot
Finally, press straight down on the handles of the walker to support your weight while you move your other leg forward. Repeat the process by moving your walker forward and in one leg at a time.
Move carefully
Follow these safety tips when using a walker:
- Stay upright while you move. This helps protect your back from strain or injury.
- Ride in the walker rather than walking behind it.
- Do not push the walker too far in front of you.
- Make sure the handles are adjusted to the correct height.
- Take small steps and move slowly when you turn.
- Use caution when using a walker on slippery, carpeted, or uneven surfaces.
- Watch for objects on the ground.
- Wear low-heeled shoes that grip the soles well.
Accessories for walkers
Options and accessories can make your walker easier to use. For example:
- Some walkers fold, making them more convenient to move and store.
- Some rolling walkers are equipped with hand brakes.
- Trays can help you carry food, drinks and other items.
- A pouch attached to the side of a walker can hold books, a phone, or other items you like to have with you.
- A walker with a seat can be helpful if you need to take breaks while walking.
- Baskets are useful if you use your walker to do your shopping.
Whatever walker you choose, don’t overload it. And be sure to keep it in good working order. Worn or loose rubber caps or handles can increase the risk of falling. Brakes that are too loose or too tight can also increase the risk of falling. For help maintaining a walker, talk to your doctor, physical therapist, or another member of your healthcare team.
August 15, 2023
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