How to do it
You need: A stable walking frame or a fixed rail, A firm, high chair or bed.
Sit on the edge of a firm, high chair or bed with a walking frame or a fixed rail in front of you. Have someone nearby for your first few attempts.
- Shuffle forward so your bottom is near the front edge of the seat.
- Push up through your hands on the chair or bed and through your unoperated leg.
- Stand up tall and rest your hands on the frame or rail once you are balanced.
- Lower yourself slowly back down, reaching for the seat with your hands, rather than dropping.
Form cues
- You push up through the chair and your strong leg, not by pulling on the frame.
- Once steady, you stand upright with your weight even between both feet as allowed.
- The way back down is slow and controlled.
Common mistakes
- Pulling yourself up on the walking frame, which can tip toward you.
- Flopping back down into the chair instead of lowering with control.
- Standing for so long that you feel light-headed.
Safety: Stop and sit down if you feel faint or dizzy, and message your physio if you cannot put the weight through the leg that you have been told is allowed.