• Returning to Weight Bearing. A Step-by-Step Transition Guide

    • By Lydia Lucas
    • December 19, 2025

  • Returning to Weight Bearing: A Step-by-Step Transition Guide

    After weeks of being non-weight bearing following a foot or ankle injury, the thought of standing or walking again can feel exciting but also a little daunting. This stage of recovery marks a huge milestone, one that requires patience, care, and gradual progress.

    At StrideOn, we’ve seen first-hand how crucial the transition back to weight bearing can be. Getting it right helps to protect your healing, rebuild strength, and restore confidence. Here’s a step-by-step guide, with physiotherapist-approved advice, to help you move forward safely.

     

    1. Understanding the Weight-Bearing Stages

    Every recovery journey is different, but your consultant or physiotherapist will guide you through distinct phases of mobility:

    • Non-weight bearing (NWB): No pressure is placed on the affected leg or foot, typically supported by a knee walker.
    • Partial weight bearing (PWB): You start to apply a small amount of weight, often 25–50%, while still using a mobility aid for support.
    • Full weight bearing (FWB): The final stage where you can walk unaided or with minimal support, depending on confidence and strength.

    Never rush this process. Your physiotherapist will check how your body responds before allowing you to progress. Moving too quickly can delay healing or cause re-injury.

     

    2. Working with Your Physiotherapist

    Your physiotherapist plays a vital role in this stage. They’ll:

    • Assess your healing using mobility and balance tests.
    • Create a personalised exercise plan to rebuild strength and flexibility.
    • Monitor swelling, alignment, and pain levels.

    Common early exercises include:

    • Toe curls and ankle pumps to restore flexibility.
    • Seated heel raises to begin rebuilding calf strength.
    • Balance training with gentle weight shifting.

    These small, repetitive movements are the building blocks for regaining stability and confidence.

     

    3. Choosing the Right Footwear

    When your consultant gives the go-ahead to start standing again, footwear becomes essential. Supportive shoes can make a real difference in stability and comfort. Look for:

    • A firm sole and good arch support.
    • Adjustable fastenings for swelling.
    • Low heels and slip-resistant soles.
    • Orthopaedic or post-surgery shoes, if advised by your physio.

    Avoid flip-flops, slippers, or soft shoes, they offer little control and can increase the risk of slipping or uneven walking patterns.

     

    4. The Role of Mobility Aids in Transition

    As you begin to place weight back on your foot, having the right mobility aid can make this phase smoother and safer.

    • Knee Walker or Orthomate: Continue using your knee walker as you first start partial weight bearing, it provides some respite and rest between sessions while keeping you mobile.
    • Rollermate: Once you’ve regained enough strength to stand and start walking, the Rollermate becomes the perfect bridge between supported movement and full independence.

    The Rollermate provides light walking support, complete with a comfortable seat and easy manoeuvrability. Its design allows you to rest when needed while maintaining mobility,  ideal for when you’re still building stamina and balance.

    If you’ve hired your knee walker from us, ask about exchanging it for a Rollermate when your physiotherapist advises it is time to relinquish the Knee Walker all together. The exchange is simple, and we’ll arrange collection and delivery for you.

     

    5. Building Balance and Strength Safely

    Relearning how to trust your leg takes time. Here are a few practical ways to strengthen your muscles and coordination safely:

    • Start indoors: Use kitchen counters or sturdy furniture for balance while practising light steps.
    • Gradually reduce aid use: Move from two-hand support to one-hand, then to no aid.
    • Practice balance drills: Stand on one leg for short bursts (only when advised).
    • Stay consistent: Aim for short, frequent sessions rather than long, tiring ones.

    Remember, small daily improvements are more valuable than overexertion.

     

    6. Listening to Your Body

    The most important indicator of progress is your body. Soreness and fatigue are normal, but sharp pain or swelling are signs to rest and reassess.
     If you experience:

    • Sudden or severe pain
    • Increased swelling or redness
    • Difficulty bearing weight after several attempts
       Speak to your physiotherapist or consultant immediately before continuing.

     

    7. When to Know It’s Time to Move On from Your Knee Walker

    Most people transition from a knee walker when they can:

    • Bear at least 50% of their weight comfortably.
    • Take several unaided steps without instability.
    • Maintain balance when standing still.

    At this point, your Rollermate becomes an excellent next step. It provides reassurance and support as you rebuild confidence, without the restrictions of a full mobility aid.

     

    8. Staying Positive Through the Transition

    The shift from non-weight bearing to walking is as much mental as physical. It’s natural to feel anxious or hesitant, especially after weeks of limited movement. Celebrate each milestone, even standing for a few seconds is progress worth acknowledging.

    If you’ve been using a StrideOn Knee Walker, you’ve already experienced how the right support can change your recovery. The Rollermate continues that journey, helping you regain independence one step at a time.

     

     

     

    References (UK Sources)