Using a Walker
To use your walker, you will need to learn a new gait, or way to walk. Your healthcare provider will tell you to use either a non-weight-bearing gait (which puts no weight on one leg and foot) or a weight-bearing gait (which puts weight on both legs and feet).
Non-Weight-Bearing Gait
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1. Hold the affected (injured or weaker) foot off the floor. | 2. Lift the walker (roll it if you’re using a wheeled walker). Move it forward about | 3. Support your weight on your hands. Swing the unaffected (uninjured or stronger) foot forward to the center of the walker. |
Weight-Bearing Gait
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1. Roll the walker (lift it if you’re using an unwheeled walker). Move it forward about | 2. If you have an injured leg, a new joint, or a weaker side, step forward with that foot first. Use the walker to help you keep your balance as you take the step. | 3. Bring your other foot forward to the center of the walker. |
