Walkers
Your first week with a walker: fit, technique and the common mistakes
A walker set at the wrong height makes you hunch and drag it. Set right, it feels like walking with a railing that follows you.
By David Ellison
Senior mobility editor · Updated
Set the height first
Stand up straight inside the walker with your arms relaxed at your sides. The handgrips should line up with the crease of your wrist. When you hold them, your elbows should bend slightly — about 15 to 20 degrees.
Too low and you'll stoop, which strains your back and pulls your weight forward. Too high and your shoulders hunch up and tire quickly.
The walking pattern
Move the walker a short step ahead, about an arm's length at most. Step into it with your weaker leg, then bring the stronger leg to meet it. Stay inside the frame — don't push it far out in front and chase it.
Mistakes to unlearn this week
- Looking at your feet — look ahead, where you're going.
- Carrying things in one hand — use a walker bag or tray.
- Using the walker to pull yourself up from a chair. Push up from the armrests, then reach for the walker.
- Turning by twisting. Take small steps and turn the walker with you.
- Sitting on a rollator seat without locking the brakes.
Curbs, doorways and stairs
For a curb going up: move close, lift the walker onto the curb, step up with your stronger leg, then bring the weaker one. Going down, it's the opposite: walker down first, weaker leg, then stronger. A walker should not be used on stairs — use the handrail and have someone carry the walker.
Standard walker or rollator?
A standard walker (or one with two front wheels) is more stable and better if you lean heavily on it. A four-wheeled rollator is faster, has a seat and a basket, and suits people who mostly need balance support and rest breaks. Ask your physical therapist which one your gait calls for.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist about what's right for you.