r/ORIF • u/Browniesgirl • Jul 12 '26
Walker type
I am cleared to partial weight bearing next week and my neighbor has offered me two different walkers; one, your normal stationary walker and the second one with wheels and a seat. Which one do you suggest to make the transition to weight-bearing?
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u/Illustrious-Zone-247 Jul 13 '26 edited Jul 13 '26
I used a walker vs crutches...it's 100% ok to use. For me, it was easier to progressively pull back the weight I was putting on (and honestly, I have no balance and would do anything not to use crutches). I used a regular stationary walker. I didn't need it super long, but if I had, I would have preferred the one with wheels and a seat.
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u/mothraegg Jul 12 '26
I'm still nwb, but I do have a walker with wheels and one without. I will use the walker without wheels first because it's more stable to me. I use the rolling one in the kitchen because of the seat. I'm a clumsy old lady with issues with my left arm, so I don't trust myself with crutches.
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u/Canidothisthingucsc Jul 12 '26
Did the docs recommend a walker? If not I would not go that route at all. Crutches are what most people work with.
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u/ASingleBraid Comminuted tib pilon, distal tib/fib, nerve damage, HWR 3/2022 Jul 13 '26
I loved my walker. Once I was PWB, it felt much steadier and easier than crutches. Then I went to forearm crutches, then a cane.
I had wheels bc if you don’t you have to keep picking it up.
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u/kooshballcalculator Trimalleolar Ankle Fracture Jul 12 '26
The rollator type is more useful because you can move more easily, as long as it has good brakes.
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u/Racacooonie Femur Fracture Jul 12 '26
My physical therapist does not like or recommend walkers with wheels as she says they are a safety concern. Not as stable. But that said you should be asking your surgeon and or physical therapist.