Using a Cane with Your Prosthesis

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Using a Cane with Your Prosthesis

Learning to walk with your prosthesis takes practice. To prevent falls, you may need a cane for balance and support. Work with your physical therapist and prosthetist (an expert who makes and fits your prosthesis). They'll teach you how to use the cane properly. Follow all instructions from the physical therapist and prosthetist closely.

Walking with a Cane

• Hold the cane on the side of your intact limb (unless told otherwise by your healthcare team).

• Put your weight on your intact limb and find your balance.

• Move the cane and the prosthetic limb forward at the same time.

• Support your weight on both the cane and your prosthesis.

• Step through with your intact limb.

• Put your weight on your intact limb and take the next step, using the cane and your prosthesis.

  

  When climbing stairs, always lead with your intact limb.

Using Steps

• If there is a railing, hold on to it with your free hand.

• Step up with your intact limb first.

• Then move the cane and prosthetic limb together to the same step as your intact limb.

• To walk down steps, hold the railing with your free hand.

• Step down with your prosthetic limb and the cane first.

• Then follow with your intact limb to the same step.

Note: Consult with your physical therapist and prosthetist to learn how to handle steps without railings.