How to properly use a cane or walker after hip or knee surgery

After hip or knee surgery, moving safely is very important for your recovery. Using a cane or a walker might seem complicated at first, but with the correct technique, it will help you regain your mobility. In this article, we explain how to choose the right equipment, techniques for walking, and how to adapt your environment to feel more secure and regain your independence.

Key Points for Cane and Walker Use

• The correct choice and adjustment of your cane or walker are essential for a safe and comfortable recovery.

• When using a cane, the key is to hold it in the hand opposite the affected leg and advance with it simultaneously.

• Walkers offer greater stability; use them to relieve weight and maintain balance while walking.

• Adapting your environment, such as removing obstacles and improving lighting, reduces the risk of falls.

• Physical therapy and strengthening exercises are vital for regaining strength and mobility after surgery.

Selecting and Properly Adjusting Your Cane or Walker

Identifying the Need for a Cane or Walker

After hip or knee surgery, it's common to need assistance to move safely and comfortably. A cane or a walker can be very useful tools in this process. The need for one or the other will depend on your level of mobility, balance, and your medical team's recommendation. If you feel unstable when walking, need to offload weight from a leg, or simply seek additional support to feel more secure, a cane is likely a good starting point. For those who require greater stability or assistance with weight-bearing, a walker might be the more suitable option. Consulting with your doctor or physical therapist, such as Dr. Santiago Manzanal, is the first step to determine which device is most appropriate for your recovery.

Types of Canes and Walkers Available

There is a variety of options to suit different needs:

• Canes: These are ideal for those who need light support and to improve balance. They come in different materials and with various handle types. Some have a four-pronged design (tripod or quad) for greater stability.

• Standard walkers: These are the most basic, with four legs and no wheels. They offer maximum stability but require you to lift them to move forward.

• Wheeled walkers: These can have two or four wheels. Two-wheeled walkers facilitate movement and help maintain good posture. Four-wheeled walkers offer constant support but are less stable than standard models. Some models include a seat for resting.

• Knee walkers: Designed for specific foot or ankle problems, they allow you to rest the injured knee while propelling yourself with the other leg.

The right choice can make a big difference in your mobility and safety.

Custom Adjustment for Height and Comfort

Correct adjustment is key to using your device effectively and avoiding discomfort or additional injuries. For a cane, stand upright and let your arm hang at your side. The cane handle should be at wrist height. Your elbow should be slightly bent, around 15-20 degrees. If the cane is too long or too short, it will affect your posture and balance.

For a walker, the adjustment is similar. Standing with your arms relaxed at your sides, the walker handles should be at the height of your wrists. When holding the handles, your elbows should have a slight bend. Incorrect height can cause strain in your shoulders and back, as well as reduce the effectiveness of the support.

It is important that both the cane and the walker feel like a natural extension of your body, providing the necessary support without causing discomfort.

If you have doubts about how to adjust your device, do not hesitate to ask your physical therapist or Dr. Santiago Manzanal for help.

Fundamental Techniques for Cane Use

Using a cane correctly after hip or knee surgery is key for a safe and effective recovery. The goal is to provide support and improve balance without overloading the recovering leg.

Correct Hand and Cane Position

The general rule is to hold the cane in the hand opposite the leg that needs support. For example, if your right leg was operated on or is weaker, hold the cane with your left hand. This allows the cane to absorb some of the weight when you take a step with that leg.

• Make sure the cane is at the correct height. Standing, with the cane next to your leg, the handle should be at wrist height. Your elbow should be slightly bent when holding the cane.

• If you only need general balance assistance, you can use the cane in the hand that feels most comfortable, often the non-dominant hand.

• If you feel you need to transfer a lot of weight to the cane, you may need to consider crutches or a walker. Consult with Dr. Santiago Manzanal if you have doubts about the level of support you require.

Walking Movement Sequence

The correct technique helps maintain balance and distribute weight appropriately. The cane moves along with the leg on the opposite side.

1. Advance the cane the same distance you would take a normal step, aligning it with the foot of the leg that needs support.

2. Take a step with the weaker leg or the one that was operated on, bringing it forward to the level of the cane.

3. Transfer part of your weight to the cane to relieve the load on the weaker leg.

4. Take a step with the strong leg, passing it in front of the cane.

5. Repeat the process.

When turning, do so on your strong leg to maintain stability.

Tips for Maintaining Vision and Balance

Keeping your head up and looking forward is essential for safety.

• Look forward, not at your feet. This allows you to anticipate obstacles and maintain better balance.

• Keep the cane close to your body for better control.

• If you need to pick something up from the floor, try to bend down carefully, using the cane for support, or ask for help. Avoid excessive bending.

It is important to remember that the cane is an aid, not a substitute for muscle strength. Physical therapy is vital to regain mobility and independence. Dr. Santiago Manzanal can guide you on the most suitable rehabilitation plan for you.

When walking, remember that progression is gradual. Start with short distances and increase as you feel more comfortable and stronger. If you feel pain or instability, stop and rest. For more detailed guidance on how to walk after surgery, you can consult walking tips.

Using a Walker for Post-Operative Mobility

A walker is a supportive tool that can greatly facilitate your mobility after hip or knee surgery. Its design provides a wider base of support than a cane, which increases stability and reduces the risk of falls. It is important to familiarize yourself with its correct use to maximize benefits and ensure a safe recovery.

Basic Principles of Walker Use

The main goal when using a walker is to transfer some of your body weight to the device, relieving the load on the operated leg. This allows for safer and more controlled walking. The correct technique involves moving the walker first, then the operated leg, and finally the healthy leg.

• Positioning: Stand behind the walker, firmly gripping the handles. Make sure the walker is at a comfortable distance.

• Movement: Advance the walker a few inches. Then, take a step with the operated leg, bringing it up to the height of the walker. Finally, take a step with the healthy leg, moving it past the walker.

• Pace: Maintain a steady pace and avoid rushing. It is preferable to move slowly and with control.

It is essential to look forward, not down at the walker, to anticipate obstacles and maintain balance.

Adapting the Walker to Individual Needs

Choosing and adjusting the walker are key steps for its effectiveness. There are several types of walkers, each with specific characteristics:

• Standard walker: Four legs without wheels, offers maximum stability but requires lifting to move forward.

• Two-wheeled walker: Wheels on the front legs, facilitates movement and helps maintain a more upright posture.

• Four-wheeled walker: Similar to a cart, with wheels on all four legs, offers good mobility but less stability than models without wheels.

• Three-wheeled walker: Lighter and more maneuverable than the four-wheeled one, ideal for tight spaces.

Height adjustment is crucial. The handles should be at hip height, allowing your elbows to be slightly bent (approximately 15-20 degrees) when you hold them. Incorrect height can cause strain or instability. If you have doubts about which walker is most suitable for you, consult with Dr. Santiago Manzanal or your physical therapist.

Integrating the Walker into Daily Activities

Incorporating the walker into your daily routines requires practice and adaptation. When sitting, approach the chair with the walker, place the walker to one side, and use your arms to support yourself as you lower down. When getting up, push yourself up with your arms and hold the walker for stability.

• Sitting: Approach the chair, ensure the walker is stable, and then carefully sit down, using your arms for support.

• Standing: Position the walker in front of you, lean slightly forward, and push yourself up with your arms, gripping the walker handles to stand.

• Doors: When passing through doors, push the door with your free hand, advance the walker, and then pass through with your healthy leg.

Remember that patience and consistency are your best allies during this process. If you experience unusual pain or difficulty, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Santiago Manzanal.

Navigating Environments with a Cane and Walker

Techniques for Going Up and Down Stairs

Going up and down stairs can be a challenge after hip or knee surgery, but with the right technique, it can be done safely. If you use a cane, hold it in the hand opposite the leg that needs more support. When going up, the principle is "up with the good": take the first step with the strong leg, then bring up the weak leg and the cane. When going down, it's "down with the bad": start with the cane, followed by the weak leg, and then the strong leg. If there's a handrail, use it for added stability and hold the cane in your free hand.

With a walker, the process is similar. When going up, place the walker on the step above, then step up with the strong leg, followed by the weak leg. When going down, position the walker on the step below, step down with the weak leg, then the strong leg. Always take one step at a time and ensure the walker is stable before moving forward. If you feel insecure, do not hesitate to ask someone for help or consult with Dr. Santiago Manzanal about alternatives or adaptations.

Safe Maneuvers on Curbs and Uneven Surfaces

Curbs and small uneven surfaces can present obstacles. To overcome them with a cane, approach the curb and secure your balance. When going up, take the first step with the strong leg, then bring up the cane and the weak leg. When going down, place the cane on the lower edge, step down with the operated leg, and then the strong leg. Remember the rule "up with the good, down with the bad.

If you use a walker, when approaching a curb, lift the front of the walker (if it has front wheels) or move it carefully so that the front legs are on the curb. Then, advance with the strong leg, followed by the weak leg. To go down, position the front wheels or legs of the walker on the lower edge, step down with the weak leg, then the strong leg. It is important to keep the walker close to your body for better control.

Considerations When Getting In and Out of Vehicles

Getting in and out of a car requires planning. When approaching the car, turn and sit down backward first, using your hands for support. If you use a cane, place it on the ground near the open door, next to the leg that is not weight-bearing. If you use a walker, make sure it is folded and accessible, or place it safely out of the way.

To get out, stand up using the armrests of the seat or the cane/walker for support, and then advance with the strong leg. To get in, sit down with the operated leg first, then move the rest of your body into the seat. Always ensure you have enough space to maneuver and avoid sudden turns. If you have doubts, Dr. Santiago Manzanal can offer specific advice for your situation.

Environmental Adaptations for Greater Safety

To move with more confidence and reduce the risk of falls after hip or knee surgery, it's important to prepare your home. Small changes can make a big difference in your daily safety and comfort. Think of your home as a space that should facilitate your mobility, not hinder it.

Eliminating Obstacles and Improving Lighting

A clear environment is a safe environment. Review your spaces and remove anything that could cause a trip. This includes:

• Small or loose rugs.

• Electronic cords crossing hallways.

• Objects on the floor, such as magazines or shoes.

Keeping floors clean and dry is essential to prevent slips. Make sure the rubber tips of your cane or walker are in good condition; if they are worn, replace them. You can find replacement tips at medical supply stores or pharmacies. For winter, there are special ice tips.

Adequate lighting also plays an important role. Ensure that all areas you walk through are well-lit, especially hallways and stairs. Consider installing nightlights to facilitate movement during the night. Good visibility will help you anticipate and avoid obstacles.

Selecting Appropriate Furniture for Sitting

Choosing the right furniture can facilitate daily tasks. When sitting, look for chairs that are at an appropriate height so you can get up easily. Chairs with firm armrests are ideal, as they provide an additional point of support. Avoid sofas that are too low or soft, which can make movement difficult. If you need to rest while walking, a walker with a seat can be an excellent option. For more information on how to prepare your home, you can consult resources on prehabilitation before surgery.

Fall Prevention Measures at Home

Fall prevention is a priority. In addition to clearing obstacles and improving lighting, consider the following:

• Footwear: Wear shoes or sneakers with non-slip rubber soles. Avoid footwear with heels or slippery soles.

• Surfaces: Be especially careful on wet or slippery surfaces, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

• Pets and children: Be aware of the presence of pets and small children, as their movements can be unpredictable.

If you have doubts about how to adapt your environment or need specific recommendations, do not hesitate to consult with Dr. Santiago Manzanal. His expertise can guide you in creating a safer home conducive to your recovery.

Additional Considerations for Recovery

Techniques for Picking Up Objects from the Floor

Picking something up from the floor after hip or knee surgery requires care to avoid straining the operated joint. Avoid bending directly from the waist.

To pick up an object:

1. Find a firm support point, such as a table or a stable chair.

2. Slide the operated leg backward, keeping it as straight as possible.

3. Bend the knee of the non-operated leg to lower yourself.

4. Alternatively, you can rest the knee of the operated leg on the floor if space allows.

Safe Practices When Dressing and Undressing

Dressing and undressing can be a challenge. The key is to prevent sudden movements and use adapted tools.

When putting on underwear, socks, pants, or skirts, always start with the operated leg. You can use accessories like a long-handled shoehorn or a sock aid to facilitate the task without having to bend down too much.

It is important to remember that internal rotation of the operated leg (turning the knee inward) should be avoided.

Importance of Physical Therapy and Strengthening Exercises

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of your recovery. Strengthening exercises, which can begin a few days after surgery as medically indicated, help regain muscle strength and mobility.

• Initial Phase: Gentle and controlled exercises, focused on maintaining range of motion without load.

• Progression: Gradual increase in intensity and number of repetitions.

• Balance: Incorporation of exercises to improve balance and proprioception.

Always consult with your physical therapist or Dr. Santiago Manzanal to adapt the exercise program to your individual progress.

To ensure a successful recovery, it's important to keep a few extra details in mind. If you want to know more about how to take better care of yourself after your treatment, visit our website to find useful tips and practical guides.

A Step Forward Towards Recovery

Using a cane or walker after hip or knee surgery is an important part of your recovery. Remember that practice makes perfect; it might feel a bit awkward at first, but with time it will become more natural. Always follow your doctor's or physical therapist's instructions on when and how to use your assistive device. Paying attention to details, such as the correct cane height and how to take steps, makes a big difference in your safety and comfort. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it and be patient with yourself. Every small advance is a victory on your way back to mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct way to hold the cane?

You should hold the cane in the hand opposite the leg that was operated on or feels weaker. This gives you the best support. If you are only using it for a little more balance, you can use the hand that feels most comfortable.

How should I move the cane when walking?

Move the cane at the same time you take a step with the leg on the opposite side. For example, if you hold the cane with your left hand, step with your right foot and move the cane forward. The tip of the cane should be level with your foot.

How do I know if my cane or walker is at the correct height?

When standing, with the cane or walker next to you, the top of the handle should reach your wrist. When holding it, your elbow should be slightly bent, as if relaxed.

What should I do if an object falls to the floor?

Do not bend directly. Lean on something firm, like a table. Bring the operated leg backward, keeping it straight. Then, bend the knee of the non-operated leg to squat down. Another option is to place the knee of the operated side on the floor.

How do I go up and down stairs with a cane or walker?

To go up, take the first step with your healthy leg, then bring up the operated leg, and finally the cane or walker. To go down, take the first step with the cane, then with the operated leg, and finally with the healthy leg. Remember: 'up with the good, down with the bad'.

What types of activities or sports are safe after surgery?

It's good to start with gentle activities like walking. Later, stationary cycling and swimming are excellent options. Avoid sports that involve sudden movements or a risk of falls until your doctor or physical therapist tells you it's safe.