How do you properly use a walker?

How do you properly use a walker?

How to Use a Walker

1. Push up from the armrest of the chair or from the bed to a standing position.
2. Place a firm grip on both sides of the walker with your hands.
3. Move the walker forward a short distance.
4. Step forward with your injured or weaker leg first, putting weight on the palms of your hands.

Why do people put tennis balls on walkers?

People put tennis balls on walkers to make them quieter, to protect floors, and to make it easier to push the walker along. There are tennis balls made specifically for walkers. You can cut a tennis ball for a walker using a serrated knife or by putting it in a vice and using a saw, but be careful!

How high should a walker be set?

Stand with your shoulders relaxed and your arms hanging loosely at your sides. The walker height should be at the crease of your wrist when your arm is extended (Figure 1).

What foot goes first when using a walker?

Make sure all four tips or wheels are touching the ground. To go up, step up with your strong leg first. Place all your weight on the walker and bring your weaker leg up to the step or curb. To go down, step down with your weaker leg first.

Can you sit and roll on walker?

Rolling walkers are not designed to be used like a wheelchair and should always be locked when you are seated. While it might be convenient to push your loved one while sitting on their rollator, it’s actually quite dangerous.

Can you use a walker if you are non-weight bearing?

Your physician may prescribe you a walker if you are not supposed to put any weight on your injured foot, ankle or leg. This is the non-weight bearing period of your recovery.

How do I take my first step with a wheeled walker?

Before you take your first step with a wheeled walker, make sure that all four legs/wheels are securely on the ground and that nothing has gotten underneath the legs or caused it to be lifted or off balance in any way. Don’t try to watch your feet because it may cause you to lose your balance or you may run into something.

How do I adjust the height of my four wheeled walker?

Adjusting the height of your four wheeled walker 1. Stand with your shoulders relaxed and arms by your side 2. 1. Place the four wheeled walker in front of your seated position 2. Lock the brakes (i.e. down position) 3. Pull feet back with hands on arm rests of the chair 4. Lean forward, push up from arm rests 5.

How do I get Up from a sitting position with a walker?

Follow these steps when you get up from a sitting position: Place the walker in front of you with the open side facing you. Make sure all 4 tips or wheels of your walker are touching the ground. Lean slightly forward and use your arms to help you stand up. Do not pull on or tilt the walker to help you stand up.

How do I move my Walker forward?

If your walker has wheels, you will push it forward to move forward. If your walker does not have wheels, then you will need to lift it and place it in front of you to move forward. All 4 tips or wheels on your walker need to be on the ground before you put your weight on it.