Walker Use 

A walker with 4 solid prongs on the bottom (no wheels) will be the most stable. It lets you take some of the weight off your legs as you walk. To use it, though, you have to be able to lift it off the ground to move it forward. Other walkers may have 2 wheels in front (see picture), or 4 wheels. A walker with wheels allows you to push it forward without lifting it off the ground.

Walker height

Adjust your walker so that the top of the walker (where you hold on) is level with the crease in your wrist when you stand up straight. With your hands on the walker, your elbow should bend about 20 degrees.

Walker use

The following are general use guidelines:

• First, put your walker about one step ahead of you.
• Make sure that all 4 prongs or wheels are on the ground before taking a step forward or backward.
• Look where you are going, not at your feet.
• Grip the top of the walker with both hands for support.
• Lift your injured or weakest leg and step into the walker frame. Do not step all the way to the front bar of your walker.
• Complete your step by bringing your good leg forward.
• Take small steps when you turn.
• To sit, back up until your legs touch the chair. Reach back to feel the seat before you sit.
• To get up from a chair, place the walker in front of you. Push yourself up by pressing down on the arms of the chair. As you shift your weight onto your feet, move one hand at a time to your walker. Do not use a walker to climb stairs or to use an escalator.

Safety tips

The following tips will help you safely use your walker:

• Make sure that all 4 prongs or wheels are on the ground before moving yourself forward or backward.
• In the home, remove scatter rugs, electrical cords, spills, and anything else that might cause you to fall.
• In the bathroom, use non-slip bath mats, grab bars, a raised toilet seat, and a shower tub seat.
• Use a backpack, fanny pack or apron to help you carry things around. To carry light-weight items, you may attach a small pack to the crossbar of the walker.
• Be sure your shoes fit properly, have non-slip bottoms, and are in good condition.
• Be cautious when going up and down curbs and walking on uneven sidewalks.