Assistive Mobility Devices After Surgery: How To Use Them Right?

Assistive Mobility Devices After Surgery: How To Use Them Right?

by Dr.Shailendra Patil

Posted on 25th November, 2021 at 2:14:14 AM


Assistive Mobility Devices After Surgery: How To Use Them Right?

If you have recently had knee replacement surgery in Thane, India, your doctor might recommend a walking aid for the first few weeks. A cane or walking aid can speed up your recovery by keeping the weight off your foot and helping you with balance. It enables you to carry out your routine activities without putting excess pressure on your leg.

Now, using a walking aid may seem a little difficult at first. Your surgeon will tell you the basics of holding the walker the right way. It may feel odd initially, but as you start using it regularly, you will feel comfortable walking with a cane.

Make Your Home Slip-proof

The proper use of a walking aid ensures that you don’t slip or fall down the stairs. Still, it is important to make a few important changes to your home to make it slip-proof.  Start with removing the electrical cords, rugs, and other obstacles that might come your way while walking. Here are a few things you can do to make your home a safer place for recovery post-surgery.

  • Organize your furniture in such a way that you have sufficient space to walk between couches.
  • Move your room downstairs for a couple of days
  • Install lights in the hallway, bedrooms, and other areas
  • Use raised toilet seats and remove any slippery item from your bathroom
  • Keep a water bottle and other regular-use stuff handy
  • Do not walk without a walking aid

For patients who can’t take a break from work, crutches can be used to improve their mobility while maintaining stability.

Walking Guide

Crutches that are a few inches below your armpits make the best option for post-surgery patients. When walking, lean forward a little and place the crutches one foot ahead of you. Do not put any stress on the injured or operated legs. The weight should rather be on the crutches. Do not look down when walking, look in front of you and put the crutches first before moving your other leg.

Walking up and down the Stairs

Avoid stairs as much as possible after the surgery. However, if it’s absolutely important, you can grab your cane, stick, or crutches for support when walking up and down the stairways. Hold the railing tightly with one hand while the other one holds the crutches.

Keep your operated leg behind the good leg and take a step ahead with the good leg only. If you don’t have the handrails, use your crutches alone to hop down. You are going to need someone for help for the first few days at least. Once you get used to the cane and crutches, it will be easier to walk up and down the stairs. Until then, it is better to avoid stairs altogether.

Should You get a Cane or Wheelchair Instead?

Your surgeon might recommend a wheelchair to give your operated leg sufficient time to recover without any movement. However, a cane or crutches are better. You need to keep your body mobile while maintaining stability for a faster recovery.

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