Some people with an ankle sprain require assistance in order to maintain balance. A walker is much more stable than crutches or a cane. Adjust the walker so that the handles reach the crease in your wrist while you stand upright.

Using a Walker

• Place your walker one stride ahead of you. Make sure that all 4 legs of your walker are on the ground.
• Grasp the handles on the walker with both hands. Lean forward and support your weight on your arms.
• Step forward with your good leg. Place your foot in the center of the square that is made by the walker feet.
• Step forward with the other leg.

Walker Rules

• Take small steps when you turn.
• In order to sit in a chair, back up until your legs touch the chair. Reach behind you in order to feel the seat and then sit down.
• In order to get up from a chair, push yourself up with your arms and then grasp the handles on the walker.
• Make sure that the rubber tips on the legs of the walker are tightly fastened. Replace the rubber tips if they become worn.
• Do not use your walker to climb stairs.
• Do not use your walker on an escalator.

General Safety Tips

• Remove small area rugs, electrical cords, spilled liquids or other items that may cause you to slip.
• In the bathroom, install non-slip bath mats, toilet grab bars, a raised toilet seat, shower grab bars and a shower tub seat.
• Keep household items in close reach.
• Use a backpack, fanny pack, apron or briefcase in order to carry items.