Ambulatory Devices: Mastering Canes, Crutches, and Walkers Like a Pro

When it comes to finding support (literally), canes, crutches, and walkers can be lifesavers. These devices help people maintain mobility, regain independence, and reduce the risk of falls. But to get the best results, knowing how to use each one properly is key. So, let’s dive into the basics to keep you moving with confidence and ease!


Cane You Handle This?

A cane is a fantastic aid for those who need a little extra stability and support for a single leg. But here’s the trick—if your right leg needs help, hold the cane on your left side. Counterintuitive? Maybe, but it’s all about balance. Using the cane on the opposite side of the affected leg allows it to better support your weight when you step forward with the “weaker” side. This cross-body balance improves stability and puts less strain on your joints. So, remember: opposite leg, same cane!

To walk properly with a cane:

  1. Place the cane in front of you as you step with your weaker leg.
  2. Shift your weight onto the cane, letting it do its job.
  3. Step through with your stronger leg, and repeat!


Crutch the Right Way

Crutches are the go-to choice for people needing complete relief of weight on one leg. They allow the unaffected leg to take the lead while sparing the injured one. But it’s not enough to just “wing it” with crutches. Position is everything. Make sure your crutches are about an inch below your armpits when you’re standing, with your elbows slightly bent. This helps avoid that dreaded armpit pinch while giving you stable control.

For stairs, remember this handy rule: “Up with the good, down with the bad.”

  • Going up: Step up with your good leg first, then bring the crutches and injured leg up.
  • Going down: Move the crutches down to the next step first, then follow with your injured leg, and finally your good leg.

This method keeps you steady and ensures the good leg leads the way up and down.


Walking Tall with a Walker

When you need even more support, walkers are there to the rescue. Walkers are ideal for those needing maximum balance assistance, whether due to surgery, weakness, or stability issues. First, make sure your walker is the right height—your elbows should have a slight bend, and the walker should line up with the crease of your wrist when standing upright.

To move forward with a walker:

  1. Push it a step ahead of you (about an arm’s length).
  2. Step in with your weaker leg, using the walker to support your weight.
  3. Follow with your stronger leg, and repeat.

Again, for stairs, follow the “Up with the good, down with the bad” rule if your walker is collapsible or a therapist is guiding you.


When in Doubt, Ask the Pros!

Using these devices is a science and an art. If you’re ever unsure or find using these devices tricky, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or healthcare provider for a quick tutorial. They can provide helpful tips or adjust your device to ensure it fits your specific needs.

With the right device and a bit of know-how, you’ll be walking, crutching, and striding confidently!


Bethany Wolcott

D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

The Activator: Small Tool, Big Results in Chiropractic Care

By Design Team • September 8, 2025
When most people picture a chiropractic adjustment, they imagine a manual adjustment—the quick, precise movement of a chiropractor’s hands creating that signature “pop.” But there’s another technique that’s just as effective, and in many cases, even more comfortable for patients: the Activator. This method uses a small handheld tool called the Activator Adjusting Instrument to deliver safe, gentle, and targeted adjustments. While it might look simple, this little spring-loaded device packs a powerful punch when it comes to improving spinal health and reducing pain. In this post, we’ll break down what the Activator is, why chiropractors use it, how it works, and who can benefit most from this technique.

6 Things You Didn’t Know About Kyphosis

By S21 GMB • September 1, 2025
When you hear the word kyphosis , you might picture someone hunched over with poor posture. But this spinal condition is a lot more interesting—and more common—than most people realize. Kyphosis happens when there’s an exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back. While a little rounding is normal, too much can cause pain, stiffness, and even affect breathing in severe cases. The good news? With the right awareness and care, many people can manage it effectively. Here are six things you may not have known about kyphosis: 

Visceral Massage: Supporting the Body from the Inside Out

By Jun Sanchez • August 25, 2025
When most people think about massage, they picture sore shoulders, tight hamstrings, or a knot in the middle of their back. But did you know massage can also target areas inside the body? We’re not talking about bones or muscles this time—we’re talking about your organs. Visceral massage, sometimes called visceral manipulation, is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on releasing restrictions around the organs in your abdomen and chest. This technique may sound a little different than what you’re used to, but it has been shown to help with everything from digestion to chronic pain. Let’s break down what visceral massage is, why it works, and who may benefit. 

Rotator Cuff Syndrome: What It Is, How to Treat It, and How to Keep It From Coming Back

By S21 GMB • August 18, 2025
“Oh, I could have played D1 baseball if I hadn’t torn my rotator cuff in high school.” Right. We’ve all heard this line — sometimes from former athletes, sometimes from the guy at the office who played two years of JV. But what is your rotator cuff? Is a tear really that serious? And is every shoulder ache a career-ending injury? Let’s dig into what’s really going on with this important group of muscles and what you can do to keep them in top form. 

Low-Impact Activities for Joint Health

By S21 GMB • August 11, 2025
7 Best Low-Impact Activities for Lifelong Joint Health and Wellness

Debunking Myths: Common Misconceptions About Chiropractic Care

By S21 GMB • August 4, 2025
Chiropractic care is often surrounded by myths and misconceptions, some of which may lead people to shy away from seeking care or fully understanding its benefits. From concerns about safety to doubts about its effectiveness, many misconceptions persist about chiropractic care. However, as the field of chiropractic continues to grow, research and evidence-based practices help to dispel these myths. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common misconceptions about chiropractic care, and provide evidence to clarify the truths behind them.

Roll With It: A 10-Minute Full-Body Foam Rolling Routine That Your Muscles Will Thank You For

By S21 GMB • July 28, 2025
Whether you’re an elite athlete, a casual competitor, or someone who sits at a desk all day, foam rolling is a simple, effective way to show your muscles some love. It's like giving your body a do-it-yourself massage—no appointment necessary. In just ten minutes a day, you can reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility, and help your body recover faster. At Peak Performance, we often recommend foam rolling to our patients as part of their home care, especially when paired with regular chiropractic and massage therapy. Here's everything you need to know to start rolling your way to a healthier, happier body.

IT Band Syndrome: Why Your Outer Knee Hates You (And What to Do About It)

By S21 GMB • July 21, 2025
If you’ve ever trained for a marathon, ramped up your squat routine, or taken your weekend hikes a little too seriously, chances are you’ve had a run-in with IT Band Syndrome. That nagging pain on the outside of your knee that shows up halfway through your run and sticks around longer than you'd like? That’s your iliotibial (IT) band screaming for help. At our chiropractic and massage office here in Buffalo, NY, we see this common overuse injury all the time—especially among runners, cyclists, lifters, and anyone who moves with purpose. The good news? IT Band Syndrome is treatable, manageable, and preventable. You just need the right game plan—and maybe a chiropractor and massage therapist in your corner.

Kanjo, Acupressure, Wellness

By Sahil's Development Team • July 14, 2025
The Point of Relief: Acupressure Made Easy with Kanjo

Stars, Stripes, and Spines: Why Your Back Goes Pop (and How to Watch Fireworks Without Wrecking It)

By S21 GMB • July 3, 2025
Cue the barbecue, spark up the sparklers, and grab your favorite red, white, and blue—because the Fourth of July is here! As we ooh and aah over fireworks lighting up the night sky, there’s another kind of pop that gets people buzzing this time of year: the satisfying crack that happens during a chiropractic adjustment. Coincidence? Maybe. But if you’ve ever wondered why your back makes that signature sound when adjusted, we’ve got the answers—and some safety tips to make sure your spine is celebrating right alongside you this Independence Day.
Show More