How to Use Walking Aids Correctly: Step-by-Step

Walking aids can make everyday movement safer, reduce pain, and improve confidence, but only if they’re fitted and used properly. This guide explains how to use walking aids step by step, with practical tips for canes, crutches, and walkers.

How to Use Walking Aids Safely (The Basics)

Before focusing on technique, make sure your walking aid is set up correctly. A poor fit can lead to shoulder strain, back pain, or falls.

Get the right fit

• Handle height: When you stand upright with arms relaxed at your sides, the handle should line up roughly with the crease of your wrist.
• Elbow bend: When holding the aid, your elbow should be slightly bent (not locked straight).
• If the aid feels like it’s pulling you forward, it’s often too low. If your shoulder lifts up or you feel tension, it may be too high.

Check the condition of the aid

• Replace worn rubber tips on canes and crutches (slipping risk).
• Ensure a walker is stable and all legs sit evenly on the floor.
• For rollators, test brakes before walking and before sitting.

Use good posture

• Stand tall with shoulders relaxed.
• Look forward (not at your feet).
• Take smaller, controlled steps, especially on uneven surfaces.

Make your environment safer

• Remove loose rugs and clutter.
• Add good lighting in hallways and bathrooms.
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach

Types of Walking Aids and How to Use Each One

Different aids support different needs. Here’s how to use walking aids correctly based on type.

How to Use a Cane

A cane is ideal for mild balance issues or when one leg needs support.

Which side should you hold the cane on?

Hold the cane in the hand opposite the weaker or painful leg.
Example: If your right leg is weak or painful, hold the cane in your left hand.

Walking pattern with a cane (simple and stable)

• Move the cane forward a small step.
• Step forward with the weaker/painful leg at the same time as the cane.
• Step through with the stronger leg.

Turning with a cane

• Take small steps.
• Keep the cane close to your body.
• Avoid twisting your torso; turn your feet instead.

How to Use Crutches

Crutches provide more support than a cane and are often used after injury or surgery. Correct use matters to avoid nerve pressure and shoulder pain.

Fit your crutches properly

There should be a small gap between your armpit and the top of the crutch (you should not rest your weight under your armpits).Your hands should grip the handles with a slight elbow bend.

Important: Support your weight through your hands, not your underarms.

Common walking patterns (gaits)

Your clinician may recommend a specific gait, but these are the most common:

• Two-point gait (more natural): Move one crutch and the opposite foot forward, then the other side.
• Three-point gait (non-weight-bearing or limited weight): Move both crutches forward, then bring the affected leg through without putting full weight on it.
• If you’re unsure which gait applies to you, follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Sitting and standing with crutches

• To sit: back up until you feel the chair behind your legs, hold both crutches on one side, reach for the chair with the other hand, and lower slowly.
• To stand: push from the chair arms, then place crutches correctly before stepping.

How to Use a Walker (Standard Walker)

A standard walker is great for stability and can reduce fall risk.

Fit the walker

Handles should align with your wrist crease when standing upright.

Elbows slightly bent when you hold the grips.

Walking with a standard walker (step-by-step)

• Push the walker a short distance forward (not too far).
• Step forward with the weaker leg into the open space of the walker.
• Step forward with the stronger leg.

Keep the walker close. If it’s too far ahead, you’ll lean forward and lose balance.

Avoid these common walker mistakes

• Don’t “jump” the walker forward too far.
• Don’t pull yourself up by the walker from a chair.
• Don’t use a walker on stairs unless your clinician specifically advises it.

How to Use a Rollator (Walker with Wheels)

Rollators are useful for people who need support but can keep a steady walking rhythm.

Rollator safety basics

• Always check brakes before walking.
• Use the brakes whenever you stop.
• Only sit on the rollator seat when the brakes are locked.

Walking with a rollator

• Keep the rollator close, don’t let it roll too far ahead.
• Walk upright between the handles, not behind them.
• Slow down on slopes and uneven ground.

How to Choose the Right Walking Aid for Your Needs

Choosing the right device is the first step in learning how to use walking aids effectively. The best option depends on why you need support and how much support you need.

Start with your main goal

• Better balance / confidence: A walker (standard or rollator) usually provides the most stability. A cane can help if your balance issues are mild.
• Pain or weakness on one side: A cane can reduce pressure on a painful hip, knee, or ankle when used on the opposite side.
• Short-term injury or post-surgery support: Crutches can help when you need to limit weight on one leg.
• Fatigue during longer walks: A rollator can be a good choice because it supports a steady pace and often includes a seat for rest breaks.

Consider your day-to-day environment

• Small indoor spaces: A single-point cane or a compact walker may be easier around narrow hallways and furniture.
• Outdoor use: A rollator can feel smoother on sidewalks and longer routes, but you’ll want reliable brakes and stable wheels.
• Stairs at home: A cane or crutches can be more practical than a walker for stairs (many walkers are not meant for stair use).

How to Walk on Different Surfaces

A big part of how to use walking aids safely is learning how to adapt your steps to the surface. What feels stable on indoor flooring can become risky on uneven or slippery ground.

Smooth indoor floors (tile, wood, laminate)

• Walk at a controlled pace and avoid quick turns.
• Make sure rubber tips (cane/crutches) are not worn and provide traction.
• With a rollator, keep it close and don’t let it roll ahead.

Carpet and rugs

• Lift your feet slightly higher to avoid catching the aid or toes on edges.
• Avoid small loose rugs when possible, they’re a common tripping hazard.
• If the walker “snags,” shorten your stride and move the walker in smaller increments.

Wet or slippery surfaces

• Slow down and take shorter steps.
• Place the aid down firmly before shifting weight.
• Avoid polished floors right after cleaning if you can.

Uneven ground (gravel, cobblestones, grass)

• Reduce speed and shorten your step length.
• Test each placement before committing weight.
• With a cane or crutches, plant the tip carefully and keep your center of gravity over your feet.
• With a rollator, choose smoother paths whenever possible and avoid deep gravel.

Slopes and ramps

• Maintain an upright posture, don’t lean too far forward.
• Move slowly and keep the aid close.
• With a rollator, use the brakes to control speed if needed and avoid steep slopes where you can’t stop safely.

How to Use Walking Aids Outdoors

Outdoor walking adds variables like uneven pavements, crowds, weather, and curbs. These habits make a big difference in stability.

• Plan your route for safer walking: Choose routes with smooth sidewalks, curb cuts, and good lighting.Avoid steep hills, construction zones, and areas with heavy foot traffic when possible.If you’re traveling, check accessibility (ramps, elevators, and surface conditions).
• Use “scan ahead” walking: Look 2–3 meters ahead to spot cracks, puddles, loose stones, or sudden slopes. Slow down before hazards, not during them.Handle crowds and distractions
• Keep both hands where they belong (on the handles for walkers/rollators).Stop fully before checking your phone, bag, or directions.Give yourself extra space when people pass.

Weather tips:

• In rain: slow down, avoid painted lines and metal grates (they can be slippery).
• In cold weather: watch for ice patches and consider footwear with grip.
• If conditions feel unsafe, it’s okay to choose an alternative (taxi, accessible transport, assistance).