Weight-bearing restrictions

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The Basics

Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate

What are weight-bearing restrictions?

This means limiting how much weight you put on the bones or joints of your leg. Your doctor might want you to follow certain weight-bearing restrictions after an injury or surgery. This helps the area heal.

It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions about weight-bearing. Ask questions if you are not sure how much weight you can put on your leg. Also, ask questions if you are not sure which activities are safe for you as you heal.

What are the types of weight-bearing restrictions?

The types are:

● No weight-bearing or non-weight-bearing ("NWB")

● Do not put any weight at all on your leg when you walk or stand.

● Do not rest your foot on the ground.

● Use a walker, crutches, or a wheelchair to get around. For some ankle or foot injuries or surgeries, you might be able to use a knee scooter. With a knee scooter, your injured leg is bent and all the weight is on your knee. None of the weight is on the ankle or foot.

● Limited weight-bearing ("LWB") – This is also sometimes called toe-touch weight-bearing ("TTWB") or partial weight-bearing ("PWB").

● You can put your toes, heel, or foot on the ground lightly, but only to help with balance.

● Do not use your leg to fully support you or try to walk.

● Use a walker, crutches, or a wheelchair to get around.

● Unrestricted weight-bearing ("UWB") – This is also sometimes called weight-bearing as tolerated ("WBAT") or full weight-bearing ("FWB").

● You can put as much of your weight on your leg as is comfortable.

● If you start to have pain, put less weight on your leg.

● If needed, use a walker, crutches, or a cane to get around.

What else should I know about weight-bearing restrictions?

● If you are not sure how much weight to put on your leg, talk to your doctor. It is better to use less weight rather than more.

● Do not put more weight on your leg than you are supposed to, even if you are feeling better. Putting too much weight on your leg can slow down healing and cause problems.

● If you are having trouble moving around, your doctor might have you work with a physical therapist (exercise expert). They can help you learn how much weight to put on your leg. They can also help with using crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair.

All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete.

This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: May 23, 2026.

Topic 151223 Version 1.0

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Retrieved from UpToDate® Digital Architect on: June 5, 2026