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 Walking

Man walking with crutches

This section teaches you how to walk with a cane, crutches, and a walker by providing step by step instructions and a video clips.

You may be up sitting or walking on the day of your surgery. You will use a walker or crutches first, and then move onto crutches or a cane.

The first few times you get out of bed, you may feel weak or dizzy. Make sure a nurse or a therapist is with you. Tell them anytime you feel weak or dizzy. The physiotherapist will help make sure you are walking correctly. They will also tell you when it is safe for you to walk by yourself.

Take short walks as often as you can, using your walking aid. Try to walk longer distances as you are able to.

Click on the tabs below to read step by step instructions and watch video clips on how to safely walk with the walking aids:

Walking With a Walker

When you are walking with a front-wheeled or 2-wheeled walker, follow these steps:

  1. Move your walker ahead first.
  2. Step forward with your operated leg first, then your non-operated leg second.
  3. Bend your knee as you are walking.
  4. When turning direction, pick up your feet to take small steps and pick-up the walker as you are turning. Avoid twisting your body.

Make sure to follow your weight bearing instructions when using a walker.

To watch a video clip on how to safely walk with a front-wheeled or 2-wheeled walker, please see below.  Please note that you may be prompted to install Microsoft's video software called Silverlight to view the video.

Walking With Crutches

When you are walking with crutches, follow these steps:

  1. Bring your two crutches ahead, about a normal step length.
  2. Step forward with your operated leg, so it is in line with the crutches.
  3. Follow with your non-operated leg, bringing it ahead of your operated leg.

To watch a video clip on how to safely walk with crutches, please see below.  Please note that you may be prompted to install Microsoft's video software called Silverlight to view the video.

Walking With a Cane

When you are walking with a cane, follow these steps:

  1. Place your cane in the hand opposite your operated leg.
  2. Moving your cane with you, step forward with your operated leg.
  3. Follow with your non-operated leg.

To watch a video clip on how to safely walk with a cane, please see below.  Please note that you may be prompted to install Microsoft's video software called Silverlight to view the video.