How to Walk with a Walker... the RIGHT way

Do you know how to walk with a walker the right way? If you walk incorrectly using a walker, you will be at risk of falling. Learn how to walk with a walker the right way in this video.
Some Keys to Remember:
1. Stand between the back legs (or tennis balls!) of the walker.
2. Look out ahead of you when you are walking.
3. Try to get your heel to touch the ground first as you take each step.
I hope this helps!
Two-Wheeled Walker with Easy Fold Up I recommend by Drive Medical:
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(Affiliate link)
Four-Wheeled Rollator Walker that I recommend by Drive Medical:
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(Affiliate link)
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Your PT Guy
Disclaimer Alert!
This content is for informational purposes only. It is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice, nor does it create a physical therapist-patient relationship with you.Always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment for any medical condition you may have. Consult with your provider to ensure this content is safe and appropriate for you. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Your PT Guy, by Waller Media LLC, and its officers for any and all losses, injuries, or damages resulting from any and all claims that arise from your use or misuse of this video’s content. Your PT Guy makes no representations about the accuracy or suitability of this content.By voluntarily using this content you assume all risks for any resulting losses, injuries, or damages.

[@MsLlewellyn007]

🇦🇺 thank you for showing us how to use a walker. The problem is that we are given the bloody things but no one tells you how to use them ❤

[@ramadevitadanki505]

G

[@yourPTguy]

Pamela, I am glad you found the information helpful. Stay safe.

[@flolamagna]

I agree .

[@annfrost3323]

The height of the walker is important too. Look at distance to his waist and how bent are the arms.

[@sabine3769]

So true

[@sueperry2567]

I’m on a walker and no one shows us how to use them. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us!

[@yourPTguy]

Sue, I'm glad it was helpful! I'll keep trying to make more videos.

[@rdjg5162]

Thankfully the PT worked with me on how to use the walker in my recovery from a broken femur. I was pushing so hard on the walker that my shoulders were hurting! This was a very useful video.

[@ruthratliff1660]

I also broke my femur and have a non union fracture. It's been 2 years and use a walker rollator never been instructed on how to.use it. Always afraid of falling as the front wheels keep spinning around as you walk. Be safe .😅

[@yourPTguy]

RDJG51, ouch! The femur is the largest bone in the body. My dad also broke his in 35 different places (it was a spiral fracture). They told him he'd never walk again. He put in so much hard work and got from a wheelchair, to the walker, then the cane, and then nothing. I'm thankful he and you recovered. Stay safe and thank you for the feedback 😊

[@SUGAR_XYLER]

My mother fell on her husband twice in a row and broke his femur now the old warlock has to push one of these around 🤣 It's pure karma

[@deni-67]

@@SUGAR_XYLER 😂😂😂😂

[@rubyjools]

I live in France. If you require a walker or any other orthopaedic aid your doctor will give you a prescription. You present this at your pharmacy orthopaedic section. In the case of walkers the pharmacist will take you through your choices, fit it to your needs/ height & show you how to use it safely & comfortably. Because health assurance is mandatory here there is no charge for the equipment. Thank you for video.

[@janetdw]

Your health care system is so far advance of ours. Pretty much every industrialized nation has a better healthcare system than ours. It’s a disgrace.

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks for watching and giving some insight into how it works over in France 😊

[@kathyshannon7476]

I live in the US. A couple of weeks before I was to have hip replacement surgery, my doctor gave me a prescription for a walker. I called my pharmacy to see if they were able to fit me for a walker and they referred me to the sister pharmacy which was larger and carried what I needed. Yes, it was fitted to my height and I was shown how to properly use it.

[@bethb7965]

Glad you're doing these videos! I'm a retired OT and am shocked that some of these folks on here didn't get the proper walker training after injuries/surgery. I've been on the 'other' side of it after having a back surgery in 2016 and hip replacement last year. Was in a SNF after each one.

[@yourPTguy]

Beth, thank you for your encouragement and feedback. I appreciate your thoughtful input and I'm so glad you were able to take care of so many people as an OT! I hope your back surgery and hip replacement is going well. Stay safe and thanks for being an example 😊

[@rosemariegibson6786]

​@@yourPTguy ĵi

[@Stukin_The_Pines]

Six & seven years ago I had first a left then a right total knee replacement. Sailed thru recovery & PT both times with only minimal discomfort, using a walker, then a cane. I was instructed in the proper use of my walker. Along with the mechanics, the one piece of advice I found very useful was this: "Remove all the throw rugs from your home." These items will do their best to make you trip & fall when you are using a walker.

[@curiouslyme524]

Thank you for this! My mother's physical therapist never taught her how to use her walker correctly. I appreciate it❤!

[@yourPTguy]

I'm glad you found the information helpful. 😊

[@starseed45]

Thank you so much. I need a walker for the worst sciatica but no one showed me how to use it and my pain got so much worse. After watching this video I am hopeful. Also I didn't know to put tennis balls on the legs so in an effort to stop harassing my crazy downstairs neighbor i have been lifting the walker after i move! So grateful to you. Blessings to all of us who are suffering

[@tarakeels1631]

Easy for you to say-YOU are young & healthy. Many people CAN’T stand straight & look perfect using a walker. People w/ mobility issues walk how they are ABLE to walk, not how they SHOULD walk. People who would walk w/ a walker like you are demonstrating, DON’T NEED A WALKER! Having been hit head on by a semi truck & seeing MANY PTs over the years, they all have this in common-they don’t really understand pain & mobility issues. They’re smart people-they know how the human body SHOULD work, but some people just aren’t going to be able to do the things PTs think they should, no matter how many sadistic manipulations they stay awake at night inventing. The Bionic Woman

[@yourPTguy]

Tara, I am so sorry you were involved in that horrific accident. I'm sure you've been through a ton to get back to where you are. Have you been able to make a good recovery? Also thank you for your feedback. I hope you continue to get better.

[@robertvirginiabeach]

People have different problems that affect us differently. But the human spine is more a column than a bridge. For MOST people bent over is going to be more tiring than the spine being a vertical column balanced on the pelvis. Unfortunately many insurance plans stop paying for PT as soon as you can manage a few dozen yarda.

[@sonyafox3271]

They now make Stand up walkers, however insurance doesn’t pay for them! During the Pandemic a guy, I know expanded his breathing shop to medical supplies and, I got me a stand up walker and, it’s been one of the best things ever! I schedule out of state trips with my bus pretty regular, a regular walker would take me forever to get to the restaurant across from the mall or whatever Department Store, I go to, with a standing walker it takes less time and, I can walk at a better pace easier and, here’s another thing that I love about my stand up walker, it can go up and over sidewalks so, much easier!

[@dollywilson3395]

@@sonyafox3271 What are you referring to as a "stand up walker?' I don't understand.

[@kenney1050]

​@@dollywilson3395aren't all walkers stand up?

[@jazzysam9590]

Thank you so much. So happy I just happened to run across this video because no one ever showed me the proper way to walk with this kind of walker.

[@yourPTguy]

I'm glad you found the video helpful. Stay safe and independent 😊

[@valerieadler712]

Very helpful video, especially the advice to look ahead. I find that helps me keep my balance.

[@yourPTguy]

Valerie, I'm so glad it has helped you. Stay independent 😊

[@mjdavis9894]

How to get your balance back.

[@thundercloud7850]

Awesome job! Thank you for getting right to it without a lot of other chatty info. The content is important and you presented it concisely through visual demonstration. Well done!

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks, Thunder Cloud. It's a work in progress. I'm trying to learn to get to the point faster.

[@marcywise7799]

Thank you. I don’t believe my mom was taught anything. She had pt but no thorough walker training. I’ll make sure we watch this on repeat and practice!

[@debraschepers9381]

Ty for this video. I just had knee replacement n im experienced a lot of what ur saying. Im also short but im figuring it out.

[@yourPTguy]

You're welcome. If you haven't seen my other walker video on knee replacements and walking, you can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mX3IlIefptqhrs0 Also, sometimes getting in and out of bed can be tricky if you just had the knee replacement. Here are some of my additional tips here for that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gICWXoWdftuKgbc Stay safe and independent 🙂

[@dort5436]

What a helpful KZbin! I didn't get this information from PT. I will correct my walk.

[@brybacanaya783]

This is very helpful for me for I’m going to be a caregiver soon at home care. Thank you and have a blissful life.

[@beegee1960]

This is all fine if your back is strong and you are able to stand straight. I have spinal stenosis and the futher I walk the more my back begins to bend.

[@yourPTguy]

little things count, ouch! Yes with spinal stenosis it's almost impossible to stand straight up without having pain shooting across your back and down your legs, and then inevitably the legs go numb. Some people won't be able to stand erect like that for that and other reasons, unfortunately. But what I love about seeing those people is that they are such an encouragement to me because they keep going! Thanks for being an encouragement, even with the little things like walking. Just like your name, the little things do count. 🙂

[@AnnetteMurphyger]

I have Myscular Dystophy and find it hard to straighten up sometimes too.

[@leecowell8165]

Yep. Hip issues cause the same thing. Also out of breath issues He's assuming that everything is perfect. Well if that was the case wouldn't require a walker or rollator to begin with!

[@SteveH-TN]

Thanks for sharing this video and information.😊

[@r.gordontrueblood3188]

An excellent video. The problem is that on many walkers or rollators the hand grips are too low ... even when raised to the max. This forces the walker into a bent position.

[@thereserivera7691]

That is reason I have an upwalker

[@barbaravyse660]

Some people also walk bending over because it relieves back pain.

[@r.gordontrueblood3188]

@@barbaravyse660 Absolutely! Especially if they have spinal stenosis.

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks for the feedback, R. Gordon Trueblood

[@kathleenlowman3310]

​

[@RoosterPootPottery]

I have been using a walker for 5 yrs wrong! Thank you for the video

[@debragodwin1335]

Thank you for sharing this. I'm recovering from ankle surgery. This is very helpful.

[@yourPTguy]

Debra, I hope you're doing well recovering from your ankle surgery! I broke mine once... OUCH! It was some of the worst pain I ever felt... I am glad you found it helpful. Stay safe and independent 😊

[@maryhurley5884]

Thank you. Currently using a walker after a non displaced femur fracture I'm sixty-five. This is fabulous and timely information for me, because now I'm weight bearing and not hopping, and will be for the immediate foreseeable future. Thank you.

[@yourPTguy]

Mary, when you have weight bearing restrictions, make sure you walk as your doctor and personal physical therapist are teaching you. They are the ones who can see exactly where you're at and what you're able to do with the current challenges. They will teach you exactly what you need to do. Make sure you abide by what they're teaching so you can keep getting stronger. Stay safe!

[@amyahdocq8835]

THANK YOU sooooo much for this video. My old friend (I am his full time care taker) have now to walk with a walker and he frustrates me as he walks like you did à the beginning. He correct his walk when I tell him but with your video, it will bring one more notch to his understanding on how to walk properly and stop walking like an "old fart"... it is soooo important to walk the good way. Again, than you and I am going to show this video immediately to him 🌹 You made my day 💜

[@yourPTguy]

Amyah, thank you for your feedback and encouragement. I'm glad it could help.

[@debraschepers9381]

Maybe he had other issues like lower back n hips n at 1st it's hard to get straight. All that part is going to be my next thing to see what's going on. All the therapy has sat it off n im kinda miserable right now.

[@dianac5764]

I had to teach my mom how to walk after she broke her hip. I did so much research on bathing and toilet,etc. but didn't find info on using the walker. Iwas relentless, taking her on walks on nature trails and in malls daily. She was dragging her feet early and I had to point it out. I became her physical therapist as they didn't teach her in the nursing home. Eventually I had to leave to return to my home and my sister took over and the daily walks ended. Too bad, now my mom can barely make it to the bathroom on her own.

[@yourPTguy]

Diana, wow! Way to go helping mom. It sounds like you were not only a physical therapist but her nurse too! Thank you for being an example for so many people out there taking care of your family.

[@collinsfriend1]

The nursing home should have been doing therapy with her. It's required in our state. I would think it would be in every state. If they don't do therapy they don't get paid. False documentation is also a crime.

[@ArthurTheLibraryDetective]

​@@collinsfriend1 what State?💞

[@w.dossett3332]

Seriously well done on taking your mum that far Diana. The home should have given her physio before letting her home. She shouldnt have been let home until she was safe. Good luck with it all x

[@bethb7965]

I'm surprised your mom's PT didn't instruct her; I'm a retired OT. Hope she got all the equipment she needed at the time.

[@georgesheffield1580]

Very very good advice . ( 35+ yrs building and training the use of augmentation eqpt. Too many OT's and PT's do it wrong

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks for the input, George. We're all learning and growing 😊

[@shuchulochiang4878]

Thank you to show me how to use the walker in a right way .

[@yourPTguy]

You are most welcome. Stay safe 🙂

[@madelineashley407]

I found that the tennis balls wear out, so I bought some "skates" at the drugstore. They're a hard plastic/nylon and fit into the back legs of the walker. You can move along securely and they last quite a while--at least I haven't worn them out in the two weeks or so I've been using them.

[@jaywilliams8386]

This is very helpful, thank you. I have a walker with a seat on it and I'm going to make adjustments.

[@yourPTguy]

Jay, I'm glad the video was helpful. I'll be putting together a video soon about the walkers with seats. Stay tuned and stay safe 😊

[@conradmorin1891]

Great video, and I hope that you continue to educate us, as you excel at what you do. "Thank You" for your service to your community, close, and far. Greatly appreciated, and I will share with friends as well.

[@gloriatetting8446]

They have a newer version of a walker that you can walk forward in and not bend over. The hand holds are in different spots, according to your height.

[@annecohen8927]

It’s adjustable for your height. You can raise it for comfort and to keep your back straight so you won’t get hunched over. I found out about it after my dad’s new wife adjusted it for me. My mom passed on in January 2017.

[@jaykay1053]

Wow! I wish I’d known this when my Granny was in her walker stage. I hope I remember for when I’m trying to stay active later. Priceless info!

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks for the feedback. Stay safe and independent 😊

[@ellencoelho16]

Thank you so very much for teaching me the proper use of my walker, Now.I know how to walk properly eith my walker!

[@yourPTguy]

Ellen, you're most welcome. I'm glad it is helpful.

[@jayakumarmuniraj6212]

Very very useful lesson for the patient who uses a walker, I'm one incidentally, JAYAKUMAR CHROMEPET CHENNAI INDIA.

[@yourPTguy]

Thank you very much for the feedback, @Jayakumar Muniraj. Stay safe and independent 😊

[@helencappasso2382]

Excellent information, well presented... Thank you so much.

[@yourPTguy]

Helen, I'm glad it was helpful to you. Stay safe 😊

[@vilmadann8910]

Thanks just got a walker so your information is very good.

[@yourPTguy]

Vilma, thank you for your feedback. Stay safe.

[@sylviadominguez8327]

thank you!!! I needed this information

[@yourPTguy]

Sylvia, I'm so glad it was helpful. Thank you too for the feedback.

[@lindascott2107]

Mine has 4 wheels & I can lock it up if I want to sit down, I do bend forward a bit because my back hurts if don't I think you walk the way it safe and comfortable for you ❤

[@yourPTguy]

Linda, the 4 wheelers are great for so many reasons, especially that lovely seat! Sometimes I wish I had one with me when I'm waiting in long lines 😊 I'm glad it's a big help to you.

[@SA-hf3fu]

I just had a knee replacement a few months ago. I think this advice is something to strive for but honestly, it’s being demonstrated by a physically fit person. Let’s re-examine this when when you’re having excruciating pain. Proper standing and placement is the LEAST of your problems but thank you for the schooling. (We’ll save how hard the physical therapy for getting your ‘range’ back is later). 😉

[@collinsfriend1]

It shouldn't be the least of the worries. I used to work in an ortho clinic AND in an ortho ward. Proper standing and placement is crucial to developing proper stances. There are several stages of ambulation and those all need to be addressed.. It's important to not place yourself in a place of danger when ambulating. Pt's learn and do it successfully every day. If the pain is excruciating then you should be taking pain meds so you CAN walk in the safest manner and way to maximize proper stride. Your Dr should be seeing that you are adequately covered. Knee surgery IS a difficult recovery but safety should always be #1. Falling and tearing your surgical repair by a forced, unplanned stretch as in falling or causing damage to the bones with impact from falling is a far more greater problem and is going to hurt a lot more.

[@SA-hf3fu]

@@collinsfriend1 Thanks. Yeah, I get what you’re saying. I’m just saying that it’s easier said than done. As I stated, it is certainly something to strive for but until it’s actually you, you can’t truly understand how hard it is. I had pain meds but they only go so far and the rest of the time you simply have to endure. Just saying that it’s one thing to teach it and another to live it, however I appreciate your input.

[@yourPTguy]

SA, Knee replacements can be so painful! Keep striving, you'll get your range and ability back. I'm not sure if you also saw my video on walking with a knee replacement, but hopefully it's a helpful one for those who are in the early stages after the knee replacement. Keep up the great work at getting your range and mobility back 😊

[@yourPTguy]

Well said, @collinsfriend1. Great input

[@SA-hf3fu]

@@yourPTguy No I haven't seen that one so I will look for it as well. I'm doing better every day. I'm walking on my own and have returned to most of my normal activities. Thank you! 🙏

[@joancoates4662]

Thank you. This is very helpful to me.

[@pamelaubl504]

Thank you. Very helpful advice.

[@yourPTguy]

I'm glad it's helpful advice, Pamela. Thank you for the feedback.

[@joycemartin4889]

Wow, I was doing it all wrong!!!! Thank you for your help!

[@yourPTguy]

Joyce, I'm glad it was helpful. Stay safe 😊

[@estellagutierrez4615]

thank you for all the information.... i found wheels for the back real eazzzzy now... good or bad???

[@pervinkapadia2487]

Thanks ..very informative video.

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks again for your feedback, Pervin. 🙂

[@RosalieCascio-u1d]

Very helpful. Thank you!!

[@erikahentschke5208]

THANK YOU...

[@yourPTguy]

You're welcome, Erika. I hope it was helpful.

[@arthurwagar88]

Thanks. Will pass on.

[@chingli4881]

Thank you for your sharing.👍👍👍👍

[@rosemarymonty5399]

I’ve frequented Care facilities a lot and I always wondered why no one showed how to properly use a Walker. Everyone I’ve seen was always hunched over. Although a Doctor should advise the Patient to get a Physio Therapist to ensure the Walker fits the Patient properly, I’ve seen people use a cheaper Walker purchased via Newspapers, E-Bay, etc which does not fit at all.

[@yourPTguy]

Rosemary, yes! I agree. I'm going to try to do some videos coming up with how to choose a walker, perhaps some pros and cons of each, and how to adjust them to the right height. Would that be helpful?

[@paulaj7682]

​@@yourPTguy Great idea to address chosing the proper adjustments. Please touch on the importance of proper use while out and about. I recently witnessed a lady while out with her first time using a brand new walker. One of those big fancy fold out ones. While holding the door open for her, she turned slightly and it started to fold in on itself.if I hadn't been standing there, she might have fallen. It wasn't fully latched to stay open.

[@jenniedarling3710]

Professions might be telling them how to use a walker properly but people are not always able to take this information in (and some just choose not to listen)

[@lhud4285]

@@yourPTguyYES INDEED!!!

[@janewilliams3326]

​@@paulaj7682on 4:20 mm .

[@ralphrommel8707]

Your videos are excellent. Do you have one for using Walker without the wheels? I had right knee replacement and PT has me using that configuration.

[@OleGeezerCirca1941]

Don't criticize others, especially folks like me who are 82 y.o. with scoliosis and lumbar disk damage. People like us can hardly walk upright and with an unbent head/neck. Dudes who have a 30 to 50 year advantage on us shouldn't make blanket statements about what we should be doing. How about saying walk like this when able. 😒👎

[@yourPTguy]

Thank you for the feedback, Wise Ole Geezer Circa 1941. I agree! There are so many people who cannot walk upright due to anatomical differences - that's for sure! It's impossible to do. Some others though, are helped with some encouragement. I hope you keep fighting through your scoliosis and lumbar disk damage! It's painful but you can be such a great example to the rest of us. Thank you for the feedback.

[@OleGeezerCirca1941]

@@yourPTguy Thank you ! 😀

[@barbarapratt5314]

Would like to see one for walkers with a seat. Thanks for the info you supply

[@yourPTguy]

Barbara, thank you for your input and suggestion. I'll be working on a future video for walkers with seats. Stay safe.

[@robertvirginiabeach]

Still helps to not push the handles out so far you're leaning forward. Much less back and arm fatigue if your weight is on your legs instead of your arms. Use it to help balance, not support. The seat is in case you need to take a break. Also, if you aren't putting as much weight on the rolltor it goes over uneven sidewalk joints and the little step at the bottom of many pedestrian ramps easier.

[@barbarapratt5314]

@@robertvirginiabeach I'm in pt therapy to strengthen my legs. I use my arms and I'm worn out. Making progress but still have a long way too go. Thanks for your response it's greatly appreciated.

[@hanneliecordier1414]

Yes please the walker with a seat would realy be very helpfull

[@yourPTguy]

Barbara, I recently created a video to help learn about the walker with brakes tires and a seat. Feel free to check out my walker with the seat video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you find it helpful.

[@sally-annebrown1298]

My grandmother had one of the older model ones with the rubber feet that she used to pick up and move with her. Can still hear it to this day

[@tinksspixiedust]

I’ve used this type. It didn’t work for me at all. But mine didn’t have tennis balls on the back. I use a rollator at times. It works pretty well if the handlebars are adjusted correctly. The best for me, though, is the upright rollator. Since my L2 broke in a fall, it’s the only one that doesn’t make my back cramp no matter how carefully I use anything else.

[@yourPTguy]

Belles, ouch! I'm glad you found that the upright rollator works so well! An L2 break can be excruciating. Thanks for sharing your tip. Stay safe and keep feeling better 🙂

[@sandrawilde6088]

You have to buy the tennis balls and put them on yourself

[@SunFlower-ym2ub]

Great vid thank you!

[@ivonne6493]

Thank you so much…very simple and well described……😮 God bless you !😊

[@danytalloen]

please don't let that fantasy imaginary friend of yours get in the way of real treatment.

[@yourPTguy]

Ivonne, I'm glad it helped. Stay safe

[@angeleyez9044]

Thank you for the tip my friend.

[@yourPTguy]

I'm glad it was helpful 😊

[@pamelamolina5623]

Thank you very helpful

[@francesrogers2094]

medical equipment stores should be shown this video. and given literrature on proper walking, they just want to sell the product I am a RN and worked ten years in assisted living. This is a very good video

[@josechuy5334]

Thanks. Good suggestion ❤

[@michaellauletti6552]

Excellent video

[@yourPTguy]

Michael, thank you for your feedback.

[@marcykaren]

Please do a video for those of us that are non weight bearing on one leg.

[@zenith5844]

Thanks for the help!

[@FlipMacz]

Super great video ty🎉 Subscribed.

[@yourPTguy]

Sojourner, thanks for the encouragement and feedback.

[@charlenemack7040]

I’m approximately 5 foot seven, exactly 253.2 pounds, I know because I went and had a doctors appointment today. I can see that I’m totally using the walker wrong according to your video. I am petrified of falling backwards. One of my legs due to bad hip is slightly longer or shorter than the other foot so when I stand up right my left foot is on the four flat, well my right foot is kind of on my tippy toes. I’m going to attempt to use my walker as you show in this video wish me luck.

[@bettygrow9571]

I occasionally use a walker while recovering from grandmal seizures. I have balance problems and weakness in my left side. Walking inside my walker gives me more security and I feel more safe. It also gives me a sense of being protected from going down if a seizure should occur.

[@yourPTguy]

I'm so glad you've found a way to stay safe and be secure! Keep moving and keep being an example to everyone with your efforts 😊

[@marleneferreira749]

Thank you very much

[@anishawoods8443]

I have a unique problem. Being 70, I had polio in mostly my left leg. My knee is totally atrophied. My age is catching up with my right leg. Using a walker is the only method of transport I can use when I'm barefoot, like for morning coffee. I lean very far forward because if I don't my left leg will buckle. Sometimes my right leg will also. Most of my weight bearing is on my arms and shoulders. I would like to be more upright but I also like being perpendicular to the floor. I know a wheel chair is probably in my future, especially since I have had to get chiropractic adjustments to head, neck and center back as well as lower back from having a shorter left leg. Short of having to put my shoes and brace on every time I get up to go to the bath room or get my cats fed, is there an exercise to strengthen my shoulders? (I pulled a 50lb bow in high school, now I struggle with a gallon of milk.)

[@yourPTguy]

Anisha, wow. People who had some polio earlier in life are some of strongest people I know. They fight and fight and fight! And 50 lb bow?? That's pretty strong! Your situation is definitely challenging. I would suggest talking with your doctor and seeing if a physical therapist could come out for some specific and individualized therapy to help. Thank you for being an example to us and your kitties. Stay safe

[@anishawoods8443]

@@yourPTguy Thanks for your encouragement. I will check with my doc about PT help. I went for 13 years without my leg brace (KAFO) because back in the day they were UGGGHH LEE! Since I wasn't forced to retire because of PPS until I was 52, I am encouraged :D

[@robertvirginiabeach]

But in a bent over position you're forcing weight on your legs. Upright WITH YOUR ELBOWS STRAIGHT i suspect you can shift more weight onto your arms. You're probably going to have the height of your handles set correctly. Safety and avoiding pain should be a higher priority than vanity. If the appearance of a brace is a concern how about some loose slacks or a long skirt.

[@angiedawnmoody3519]

I have 2 walkers to use and my Palative Care Nurse showed me how to use them. I mainly use the outside one which has a seat on it and a small shopping basket underneath it and it's the right height for me and she said to stand upright with it. My damaged knee gives way on me and it has been a godsend,it has 4 wheels on it. You're showing how to walk with the indoor one.

[@yourPTguy]

Angie, I'm so glad the nurse showed you how to use both the walkers. Go nurse! 😊 That's so nice that you have the indoor and outdoor one as well. Your nurse and therapist can help you figure out the best techniques unique to your situation for sure. Stay safe and keep being an encouragement 😊

[@yourPTguy]

Hi again, Angie. I also wanted to let you know that I made a video about the walker with the 4 wheels if you would find it helpful. Feel free to check out my walker with the seat video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you are staying safe and independent.

[@GIM-7-JC]

This was very good

[@josephinekennedy5855]

That was just great thank you.🇨🇮🇨🇦☘️

[@yourPTguy]

Josephine, thanks for your feedback. I hope it helps. Stay safe and independent 😊

[@joycox2627]

My palms hurt from putting my weight on the handles when walking. What can I do to help this issue?

[@georgesheffield1580]

Those tennis balls are much better than the ski's or cane tips but they DO wear out quickly .

[@linkay6]

My mom uses a walker. The one she has has a fold up seat. Should the seat be up or down when she's walking? Thanks for the video.

[@yourPTguy]

Excellent question. The seat should typically be down when people are walking. That way, it's ready to use if needed. It's always a good idea to try and "park" the walker against something that's not going to move when someone sits down and rises up from the walker. Otherwise, the walker can slide backward when trying to get up.

[@yourPTguy]

Hi again @linkay6 , I recently created a video to help learn about the walker with brakes tires and a seat. Feel free to check out my walker with the seat video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you find it helpful.

[@claramarone5510]

Thank you

[@yourPTguy]

Clara, you're most welcome. Thank you for the encouragement

[@lesleyrichards1088]

I have a wheelie walker. I know my posture is not good because i am leaning hard on the handles. Please can you show us how to walk in this.

[@Mike-hb4pc]

That's all great info. However, those tennis balls only work on smooth/tiled surfaces. They don't work on carpet, or asphalt, or rough concrete. They won't slide. So I guess the answer to that is a different style of walker? I'm trying to figure out what would be best for my 90 YO mother. Any suggestions?

[@yourPTguy]

That's a great question, Mike. The tennis balls won't last 5 minutes on asphalt or rough concrete. They'll be shredded so fast. They make plastic walker skis that do better on the pavement and asphalt that will hold up much longer. The rubberized ones will stick more but the plastic should "glide" over a little easier.

[@yourPTguy]

Hi Mike, I wanted to send you over this video as well that you may find helpful. You were asking about the different walkers for outside and stuff so you may find this helpful and hopefully it can warn of some also potential hidden dangers too. Feel free to check out my walker with the seat video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you find it helpful.

[@Mike-hb4pc]

@@yourPTguy That's fantastic! Really appreciate it. As it turns out, I have a brand new unit being delivered to my house today that I ordered for my 90-yr old mother. All this is exactly what she needs. And she didn't have to hear it from me (you know how that can go...) Perfect timing, and again, thanks.

[@cm8944]

Tht's great thanks. But what about a walker with no wheels as that is what |I was given after my hip replacement. Not sure if using it right.

[@Ladylace47]

The walker I have has got rubber fèet at the back which of course dont move on carpet. It was from a second hand mobility shop

[@reub5439evil]

You are walking on a smooth floor. How do you use this walker on carpet, especially with padding under it.

[@catherinebrady2640]

Could you show how to appropriately walk with a rollator? The seat prevents you from putting your feet even with the back wheels. Thanks!

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks for the suggestion. I briefly go over the walking with the rollator in this video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo But again, only briefly. I'll see if I can do some more in depth videos on the topic.

[@ivonne6493]

Good Job….thank you….❤

[@yourPTguy]

Thanks for your feedback and encouragement, Ivonne! Stay safe 😊

[@jayne2467]

Thank you, Sir.👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🇺🇸

[@yourPTguy]

You're most welcome, Jayne. Thanks for the feedback. Stay safe and independent 😊

[@warriordugan7236]

So you slide the walker along. I've seen so many people lift it on each step and drop it down every foot or so.

[@beckyezra1]

Thank you !!!

[@yourPTguy]

Becky, you're most welcome. I'm glad it helps. Stay safe! 🙂

[@andrewbrendan1579]

Maybe this has been addressed elsewhere, but I'm thinking walkers might be more effective if the handgrips on the sides were significantly higher than the user's hips.

[@janetgray2184]

I like the vocal in your disclaimer

[@gpowers1701]

Thanks for this info. My Mom has a walker with a seat. Any extra pointers😊?

[@yourPTguy]

Hi there G Powers. I'm in the process of creating a video about the walkers with the seat. The most important thing with the walkers with the seat is realizing how to use it appropriately. Sometimes I liken those walkers (Rollators) to a Ferrari versus the other walkers which are much slower. Sometimes people aren't quite sturdy enough or they may be a little impulsive or quick moving on turns which can get them into some dangerous predicaments. Another area is when someone sits down on the walker seat. If at all possible, it's always best to have it with the brakes on (usually by pressing them straight down the the ground all the way) "parked" up against an immovable surface so that when the person tries to stand up, the walker doesn't slide away from them and result in a fall. Another tricky and dangerous thing that some people get into the habit of after standing up from sitting on the seat, is that they unlock the walker with it behind them, and try to move the walker all the way around to the front of them, which throws off their balance! It's best for most people to turn their own bodies towards the walker and facing it first prior to unlocking the walker. There are some more important things as well but I'll be including those in the upcoming video on the walker with the seat. Keep on the look out for that and subscribe if you haven't already so you can see when it comes out. I hope that helps 😊 Stay safe

[@gpowers1701]

@@yourPTguy Thanks so much! I'll definitely be watching for the Rollator episode. We're not what you would call a graceful family!

[@yourPTguy]

Hi G Powers, here is the video about the walker with a seat that you were asking about. Feel free to check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you find it helpful. Also, I'll try to create some more around the walker with the seat in the future. Thank you again for the suggestion and I hope it helps.

[@clarenceroller7897]

But what about the reason you are using the walker. I have nerve pain to a large degree and I'm almost using the walker as a crutch and I know that is probably all wrong. Stepping is my problem and I find myself walk and push, step and push, thankfully I only have to take maybe 10 or 15 steps to get where ever I'm going, but I will try you method and hope for an improvement. Thank You

[@kevinspooner2243]

Thanks 😅

[@yourPTguy]

You're welcome, Kevin. Thanks for your feedback

[@ritawaenink1920]

Please also show how to use Nordic poles. Thanks for your info very helpful

[@yourPTguy]

Rita, this is a great suggestion for a future video. Thank you for that and for your feedback.

[@zeebest1004]

The only people I see walking with good posture using a walker, don’t need a walker!

[@joyport287]

Yah try to walk with one injured leg.you doing it so easy. Try to show me after my operation with my fremur surgery please. Walking with one limping leg

[@nancyberry1039]

Why don't they teach you this important info when you are issued a walker or when you purchase one? After watching this, I realized that my 87 yr old dad had been using his walkers all wrong for years. It's no wonder he fell & broke his hip (back in 2021). After his surgery, the surgeon advised that he switch from a "rollator" or quad walker (4 wheels) & use the 2 wheel style, like the one in this video. He had physical therapy for months after he stopped using a wheelchair. In all that time, no one bothered to show him how to use it properly to prevent future falls. 😡

[@yourPTguy]

Nancy, there are a lot who do teach but as you mentioned, but I think sometimes it's just sort of assumed people know, unfortunately. I'm glad the video helps. The 4 wheeler rollators can be super super fast and unsafe for some, but they have their advantages as well. I'm glad there are multiple options out there for people who need either more stable ones or the zippy speedy ones. I intend to share some tips on the rollators in a future video. Thanks for your feedback and I hope dad keeps getting better! 😊

[@sabine3769]

Can you do a video on the roller walkers, 4wheels, rollator?

[@yourPTguy]

Sabine, thank you for the suggestion. Yes I will definitely create a future video on the 4 wheelers. Stay safe 🙂

[@yourPTguy]

Hi Sabine, I recently created a video to help learn about the walker with brakes tires and a seat. Feel free to check out my walker with the seat video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you find it helpful.

[@MH-hw4uh]

I can’t stand straight upward because of scoliosis and degenerative spine and osteoarthritis of hips. So I’m always leaning on back wheels for support. I use the walker with the seat at this stage. I used yours with no wheels in the past. Picking it up is not an option anymore. I do agree with your standing alinement.

[@yourPTguy]

M H, ouch! That's like a tripple wammy ouch. All three of those can be very painful. I'm so glad the walker with the seat is helping you stay as active as you can be. You are such an encouragement to me. Stay safe and keep striving

[@MH-hw4uh]

@@yourPTguy Thank you and keep helping other. That’s a blessing.

[@73_de_CJHall]

Good to know

[@patriciapowell8223]

Looking out. How does this affect those older folks with a curved spine? They are not able to stand straight.

[@yourPTguy]

Patricia, this is an excellent question. You are right, some are not able to stand straight due to their curved spine for a variety of anatomical challenges. For those in those unfortunate circumstances, "looking out" may still pose a great challenge. Sometimes, working on postural exercises and hip exercises can help give more range of motion which may "free up" some extra movement. It would be great to try and get to a physical therapist who can help determine if that would help out or not. Stay safe and keep going :)

[@patriciapowell8223]

@@yourPTguy Thanks for the information!

[@lesliehyde]

I use a rollator. My solution for walking with mine was to raise the hand grips to roughly the same height as my forearm crutch hand grips. When my previous (since deceased) roommate was fitted for a walker, her doctor also put in that she get fitted for those arm platforms with hand grips to give her better support for staying upright when mobile.

[@yourPTguy]

Leslie, that's a smart solution! The platforms can be super helpful for sure. I'm sorry to hear about your roommate's passing. 🙁

[@yourPTguy]

Leslie, I also wanted to let you know I recently came out with a walker with a seat video too. Feel free to check out my walker with the seat video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WmfJ13fbCJjZo 😊 I hope you find it helpful

[@snookyrichards9519]

What height should the handles be? Also, I feel more confident watching the floor is front of me instead of 15 feet ahead. Which is better?

[@yourPTguy]

That's an excellent question, Snooky. Here's another video describing the handle height: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZfUaYmcnZKkq5I Ideally, they should be at the wrist when someone stands as tall as they are able with their arms at the side. As for looking out or down, there are certainly times for both. For example, with urns, uneven surfaces, small steps, and a busy environment, it is better to look down. Also, if someone has numbness in their feet as well it's helpful to see where the feet land. On the other hand, it's still helpful at other times to look out as described in the video so that the posture allows the hips to "open up" and that helps bring the foot up and through in order to take a step. Doing so can help someone reduce the likelihood of "clipping" their foot and tripping from a shorter step height. Thanks for watching! Stay independent and stay safe 😊

[@sharonbeals8926]

Also it is important to have the walker at the right height for the person using it.

[@Rochelle937]

Absolutely. Great point!