Properly Using Walkers, Crutches, and Canes

20 Jan Properly Using Walkers, Crutches, and Canes

At Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation, one of our primary objectives is to keep patients upright and moving around independently. When issues with walking present themselves, our orthopedist in Manhasset, NY, has intervention methods that will help. Our team at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation may recommend using walkers, crutches, and canes to increase mobility. To learn more about when and how to use them, consider scheduling an appointment with our team.

When These Objects Are Necessary

According to our orthopedist in Manhasset, NY, there are various instances in which the use of walkers, crutches, and canes can be beneficial. Knowing what they are can help you understand when to reach out to a medical professional to determine if this equipment is right for you. Some of the most common instances where the use of this equipment is beneficial include:

• Bone breaks and fractures.
• Ligament sprains.
• Recovering from surgical procedures.
• Muscle weakness or imbalances.
• Generic balance issues.

Walkers

Each of the previously mentioned pieces of equipment needs to be handled differently for them to function correctly. The first one our orthopedist would like to talk about is walkers. When standing up straight, the top of your walker should reach the crease of your wrist. Your elbows should be slightly bent when gripping the walker, and your back should be straight. When you’re ready to move, place the walker one step ahead of you and make sure all legs are firmly on the ground. Gripping it with both arms, slowly begin to walk forward by taking small steps.

Crutches

Crutches are beneficial because they allow you to swing your injured leg without weight-bearing. By placing your crutches’ bottoms one step ahead, you can lift yourself off the ground to avoid using your healing leg, while then stepping your healthy one forward. For the easiest use, take note of the following positioning advice:

• The top of your crutches should be about 1-2 inches below your armpits.
• The grips should be at the top of your waistline.
• Elbows should be slightly bent when holding the grips.
• The weight should be rested in your hands, not your armpits, to avoid blood vessel damage.

Canes

The final walking device our orthopedist in Manhasset, NY, would like to mention is the cane. Canes are great for minor walking problems and are a moderate mixture between the two previously mentioned devices. When standing up straight, the top of your cane should reach the crease of your wrist. Make sure you hold the cane in the opposite hand of the leg that needs support when walking. To start your walk, place the cane about one step ahead of you, and step off on your injured leg. Follow this up with your non-injured leg and repeat this process until you’re done walking.

Contact Our Orthopedist in Manhasset, NY

Using walking devices does not need to be a complicated process. They can be used to help you keep your independence and improve your quality of life. If our team recommends that you use one of these walking devices, whether it be for post-surgical rehabilitation or a long-term solution, we will work with you so that you can be comfortable. To learn more, be sure to contact our orthopedist in Manhasset, NY, at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation today.