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 Walking

Man walking with walker in park

If you will be using a walker or crutches to help you walk, ask your doctor how much weight you can put on your operated joint. Usually patients with hip or knee replacement surgery will progress from a walker or crutches to using a cane.  

The techniques listed below are recommended during early healing and are generally in place for six to eight weeks following your surgery.  They may be extended on the advice or your surgeon or therapist.

Take short walks as often as you can, using your walking aid. Avoid twisting your body. Try to walk longer distances as you are able to. Walking helps to prevent stiff joints and is good for your overall health, strength and blood flow.

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.