I used a walker from the onset of my poly neuropathy in 1996 until about 2004. I had done years on/off of physical therapy and water therapy for both the PN and post stroke before I graduated to the cane.

It can done for SOME people, but it all depends on your Dx and limitations. It is all about safety! A fall can be devastating. I have fallen numerous times while using my cane...and have had to consider going back to the walker on a few occasions. I do pretty well with just the cane and can even move about the house without it if I want. It really all depends on how I feel. I know that telltale feeling in my legs when I'm weak, so I always use my cane then...as well as outside the house.

If you decide to make this change, do so gradually...very gradually. Use the cane for a hour an day, then a couple hours, etc. See how you feel with your stability. I would not use the cane outside the house in open areas of stores or uneven surface of a yard until you have been using the cane for quite some time.

Time it slow and listen to your body...it will tell you whether you're doing the right thing.