How to Walk With a Cane After a Hip Fracture
A hip fracture causes severe pain, bruising, swelling and difficulty walking. Treatment generally requires surgery. After surgery, you may need the added assistance of a cane for several months while you heal. Whether or not you have surgery, your physician will determine how much weight you are allowed to bear while walking to avoid further injuring yourself.
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Instructions
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Walking
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1
Grasp the cane close to your body in the hand on your uninjured side.
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2
Move the cane and the leg on the side of your hip fracture forward at the same time. Keep the cane directly across from the instep of the foot on your injured side.
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3
Step forward with your uninjured leg.
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4
Continue walking by repeating steps two and three.
Going Up Stairs
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5
Grab the handrail with the hand on the side of your hip fracture.
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6
Step up with the foot on your uninjured side.
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7
Move the cane and the foot on the side of the hip fracture to the step where you placed your good leg. Your feet and the cane should be on the same step.
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8
Continue climbing up the stairs one at a time by repeating steps one through three.
Going Down Stairs
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9
Grab the handrail with the hand on the side of your hip fracture.
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10
Step down with the cane and the foot on the side of the hip fracture.
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11
Step down with your good leg. Your feet and the cane should be on the same step.
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12
Continue climbing down the stairs one at a time by repeating steps one through three.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Place the cane firmly on level ground before attempting to walk.
To turn while using a cane, take small steps and avoid pivoting or sudden movements.
Make sure pathways are clear of obstructions like extension cords or rugs that may slip.
Follow the orders of your physician or surgeon regarding how soon you can walk or climb stairs after surgery and how much weight you can bear on your injured side.
Contact your physician or surgeon immediately if you fall or experience signs of a worsening condition such as a fever, shortness of breath and increased swelling or pain. Even if you fall and don't believe you injured yourself, call your physician or surgeon.
