If you’re preparing for hip, knee, foot, or ankle surgery, you may have questions about using a walking aid like crutches or a walker after surgery. Here are a few basic explanations of how these devices can be used.
The prospect of using a walking aid, like crutches, walkers, or knee scooters after surgery can be disheartening. Depending on the type of surgery, you may be limited in the amount of weight, if any, that you’re allowed to put on your surgical leg. If you’re planning on having a bunion removed, a hammer toe repaired, hip, knee, or ankle replacement, there’s a chance your doctor could recommend using one of these aids after surgery.
Before surgery, ask your doctor what they might recommend for your recovery. They may even be able to provide a prescription for one of these devices, before your surgery, so you can practice using the walking aid.
Here are a few simple explanations of how to use these devices if you’re worried about getting started (but always ask your own doctor for instructions specific to your injury):
Using crutches
2
To stand up, hold both crutches by the hand grips in one hand
and push up with the other hand on the chair. Then transfer each
crutch under each arm, keeping your surgical leg off the floor.
Using a walker
3
To stand up, steady your non-surgical leg against
the chair or bed (wherever you are seated). Push up off the armrests
with both hands, then grip the walker with both hands. Use your
non-surgical leg and your arms to steady/balance yourself.
Using crutches
1,2
To sit down, place both crutches in one hand holding the hand
grips together. Reach for the chair with your other hand to slowly
lower yourself down, keeping your surgical leg off the floor.
Using a walker
1,3
To sit down, place the back of your legs just
against the front of your seat. Position your walker in front of you.
Lower your body using your non-surgical leg and the walker to keep
your balance.
Using crutches 1,2
To take a step, move the crutches forward while balancing on
your non-surgical leg. Then squeeze the crutches between your upper
arms and ribs, bearing the weight with your hands, not your armpits,
and step forward with your non-surgical leg so that it is even with
your crutches.
Using a walker 1,3
To take a step, step into
the walker leading with your non-surgical leg. Once steady, lift/slide
the walker in front of you.
Using crutches 1,2
If you begin to experience
discomfort after using your crutches, it might be a good idea to check
the fit:
Using a walker 1,3
As you progress to being able to put weight on your surgical leg or foot, and as your doctor recommends, you should be able to start decreasing your dependence on walking aids. Make sure you feel safe and comfortable walking without the device before your stop using it completely.