Walk This Way

How to use your walker: tips, tricks, and well-kept secrets.

The following tips will help you get the most mileage out of your walker: read all about it and give Success Matters a call if you have questions!

Look forward when you are walking, not down at your feet.
Walk upright and step into the walker as you walk. Avoid leaning over the walker. Your elbows should be at your sides, not out in front of you.
Always lock the walker brakes when you are stopped. Double-check to be sure the brakes are locked before you stand or sit.
Use a chair with armrests to make sitting and standing easier.
Never use your walker to help you stand up from a seated position. Push up from the chair and then grasp the walker once you are standing.
Reach behind you with one hand to feel for the chair before sitting.
The walker is not a wheelchair. Do not push yourself or others while seated on the walker seat.
Make sure your walker has been adjusted to your height. The handles should be at the level of your hips. Your elbows should be slightly bent when you hold the handles.
When going up a step or curb, start with your stronger leg. When going down a step or curb, start with the weaker leg: "Up with the good, down with the bad."
Male sure any loose rugs, rug corners that stick up, or cords are secured to the ground so you do not trip or get tangled in them.
Remove clutter and keep your floors clean and dry.
Wear shoes or slippers with rubber or other non-skid soles. DO NOT wear shoes with heels or leather soles.

These tips brought to you by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health.