Final answer:
To use a standard walker without wheels, lift and place it in front, move the weaker leg followed by the stronger one while keeping the weight supported by the walker. Adjust the walker's height for proper elbow bend and widen the base of support to increase stability while walking.
Step-by-step explanation:
To use a standard walker that has no wheels, the user must lift it and place it slightly in front of them to start. They then step forward with their weaker or injured leg first, followed by the stronger leg, while keeping their weight on the walker for support and balance. It is important for the user to maintain an upright posture, and they should ensure that the walker is at the correct height for them, which is typically around the crease of the wrist when the arms are at their sides. This allows for a slight bend at the elbows when they're holding onto the walker. Increased stability while standing can be attained by spreading the feet apart to widen the base of support and bending the knees slightly to lower one's center of gravity, similar to how a football player prepares for a play. Using a walker greatly increases stability because it widens the base of support and helps distribute weight evenly between the legs and the arms, creating a larger area over which the center of gravity is shared.