Do not try to climb steps higher than the standard height (7 inches) and always use a handrail for balance.You may want to have someone help you negotiate stairs until you have regained most of your strength and mobility.Remember, 'up with the good' and 'down with the bad.' Always lead up the stairs with your good leg and down the stairs with your operated leg. At first, you will need a handrail for support and will be able to go only one step at a time.Stair climbing is an excellent strengthening and endurance activity, and it also requires flexibility. Hold the aid in the hand opposite the side of your surgery. When you can walk and stand for more than 10 minutes and your leg is strong enough so that you are not carrying any weight on your walker or crutches, you can begin using a single crutch or cane.As your muscle strength and endurance improve, you may spend more time walking, and you will gradually put more weight on your leg.Adjust the length of your step and speed as necessary to walk with an even pattern.
