How should a patient walk while using a walker?

Using a walker appropriately is crucial for maintaining balance and ensuring safety while walking. The recommended method is to move the affected (bad) leg first, followed by the unaffected (good) leg. This sequence helps provide stability and reduces the risk of falls. When the patient steps forward with the bad leg, the walker provides support for that leg, allowing the patient's weight to be distributed evenly and safely.

Moving the good leg afterward helps maintain momentum and balance, and ensures that the walker is positioned correctly for the next step. This technique is particularly important for patients who have undergone lower limb surgery or have conditions that affect their mobility. Employing this method can enhance the patient’s confidence in using the walker, ultimately promoting independence in mobility.

The other options do not align with safe walker use: moving the good leg first could compromise balance and support, jumping is unsafe and impractical for those with mobility issues, and walking in place does not facilitate forward movement.