As the bone heals, your doctor may advise you not to place any weight on your leg for several weeks or months. During this period, properly fitting crutches or a walker will assist you in getting around. Some fractures can mend with weight bearing, but you will most likely need to wear a hard boot to offer support when walking. A break can also cause other problems; for example, it may be difficult to get back into your usual shoes once you've healed. After you're able to bear weight on your leg again, your doctor will help you determine how much weight and for how long you should walk each day. Usually, patients are told to start with slow walks and work up to faster ones as they recover. However, some people can begin walking right away while others may need more time before going on long walks. If you break your leg easily, you may be at increased risk of developing arthritis in the knee. This is because there's less cartilage left between the bones than normal. Regular exercise can help keep your knee joint healthy. You should also know that walking is one of the best things you can do for heart health. Walking is extremely beneficial for anyone who wants to lose weight, improve their fitness level, and live longer thanks to reducing the risk of diabetes, cancer, and other diseases. However, if you have heart disease or another medical condition, talk to your doctor about whether walking is right for you.