Walkers are particularly useful for patients who have poor balance. The disadvantages of walkers are that ambulation is slow and patient posture is often poor. Walkers also make it difficult to climb stairs. A walker has been specifically designed for stairs, but its extra weight and size have limited its use.

The standard walker is made of aluminum, is rigid, has four feet and is adjustable in height. Foldable models are less durable but are easier to transport. When folded, these walkers can provide some assistance with stairs. An articulated reciprocal walker, which allows the patient to advance each side of the device independently of the other, has been developed but is not widely used. Platform walkers, like platform crutches, provide a horizontal surface for the forearms.