Digital patient information hub

Walking aids - full weight bearing

close up of hands holding zimmer frame

Walking aids can be supplied to people who need help with balance when walking. If you are given walking aids from the NHS, a therapist will supply you with them and correctly measure them for your height.

Walking sticks can be used both indoors and outdoors and can be used for additional support on the stairs as seen in the demonstration film below

Zimmer frames are for indoor use only, as uneven surfaces outdoors can make them unsteady. Also, you cannot use a Zimmer frame on the stairs.

Watch our demonstration films below:

Full Weight Bearing with Sticks:

Full Weight Bearing with Wheeled Zimmer Frame:

Full Weight Bearing on Stairs:

It is important to look after your walking aids. The rubber ferrules on the bottom of your walking aids can wear down over time and may need replacing. You can visit the Physiotherapy Departments at Bradford Royal Infirmary, St Luke’s Hospital, or most community sites across Bradford for replacement rubber ferrules between 8am and 4pm. Also, if your walking aids are damaged beyond repair then please visit the Physio reception at one of our sites.   

Returning Your Walking Aids

Some people only need walking aids temporarily while they are recovering from an injury, an operation, or a hospital stay. If you no longer need your walking aids you can return them at Bradford Royal Infirmary or St Luke’s Hospital. There is an equipment drop off box at the physiotherapy department of each site.

How to contact the physiotherapy team

If you are being supported by the Bradford Teaching Hospitals and require further assistance, then you can get in touch by using the contact details below between 8am and 4pm Mon-Friday:

Physiotherapy Department: 01274362875

Accessible Information

If you need this information in another format or language and are in the hospital, please ask a member of staff. If you are accessing this leaflet online or on your phone you can see our Google Translate automated guidance on the Digital Patient Information Hub home screen.

People with hearing and speech difficulties

You can contact us using the Relay UK app. Textphone users will need to dial 18001 ahead of the number to be contacted.

Smoking

Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a smoke-free organisation. You are not permitted to smoke or in use e-cigarettes in any of the hospital buildings or grounds.

Published by
, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Duckworth Lane, Bradford BD9 6RJ.

Date of publication: Oct 2024
Review Date: Oct 2026
MID Ref: 24100901