Harvey Weinstein has cut a frail figure in recent months, pictured entering court hunched over a Zimmer stand trial for allegations of rape and sexual assault.

The 67-year-old required help walking into New York's Supreme Court, where he was convicted of third degree rape and a first degree criminal sex act on February 24.

But the disgraced movie mogul also roused suspicion with his apparent dependency on a walking aid, with critics questioning its medical legitimacy.

As speculation continues over his use of a walker, and whether it's just an act to elicit sympathy, here's everything you need to know about Harvey Weinstein's health.

Why is Harvey Weinstein using a Zimmer frame?

Weinstein underwent a three-hour back operation in mid-December for laminectomy - also known as decompression surgery.

The procedure involves removing the back part of the bone called the lamina over the spinal column.

It is performed to relieve pinched nerves in the spinal column, which often causes back and leg pain.

The surgery was scheduled after the 67-year-old began experiencing pain and difficulty walking as a result of what he claims was a car accident in August.

He appeared in court on December 11, the day before his surgery, looking frail and using a walker which prompted questions about his health.

The week before, he had also hobbled into court for a bail hearing looking distinctly frail and unsteady on his feet, propped up by two security guards.

His attorney Donna Rotunno also revealed at that time that he was suffering from Type 2 diabetes.

Throughout his trial and weeks after his surgery, the disgraced movie mogul continued to use a Zimmer frame as he recovered from the operation.

Towards the end of January the defendant started using a Drive Nitro walker, which costs around £170 on Amazon.

Weinstein was warned by a judge not to let his health get in the way of the trial.

What has the criticism been over his frail appearance?

When Weinstein first appeared at court looking unwell, hundreds speculated that it might have been an act to incite sympathy.

His lawyers said they were "dismayed" by the suggestion, adding that the media had "incorrectly stated" it as such.

"I was dismayed to see all the press coverage incorrectly stating that Mr. Weinstein was trying to garner sympathy at his court appearance last week," Ms Rotunno said.

"Mr Weinstein was in a serious car accident in August, which resulted in a concussion and has now necessitated the need for back surgery later this week."

"He has been using a walker to assist him as the back pain has increased. He wanted to leave the walker in the car, so it did not appear that was he looking for sympathy, as he is not.

"The press surrounding his physical condition is mean spirited and false."

However, he faced another onslaught of criticism when he appeared with a Zimmer subsequently.

When asked outside the courtroom how his back felt, Weinstein responded with a thin smile and a so-so gesture with his hand.

Across the street from the court, actresses and other women who allege they were sexually harassed or assaulted by Weinstein said he was undeserving of anyone’s pity.

“He looked cowardly. He wouldn’t look at us. He wouldn’t make eye contact,” said Sarah Ann Masse, a performer and writer who alleged Weinstein once sexually harassed her during a job interview.

“This trial is a cultural reckoning regardless of its legal outcome,” she said.

Why was Harvey Weinstein on trial?

Weinstein was facing allegations that he raped one woman in a Manhattan hotel room in 2013 and performed a forcible sex act on a different woman in 2006.

While more than 80 women have made claims of sexual harassment or assault against the movie mogul, these two were at the centre of his criminal trail in New York.

But there are still ongoing criminal investigations into further complaints against him in London, New York and Los Angeles.

His trial started at the New York Supreme Court on Monday January 6, where he pleaded not guilty to the five charges against him.

The 67-year-old was convicted of third degree rape and a first degree criminal sex act on February 24. He faces up to 25 years in prison and will be sentenced on March 11.

He was acquitted on the most serious charge - predatory sexual assault - which carried a potential life sentence. He was also cleared on first degree rape.

On January 6, 2020, the Los Angeles County District Attorney announced further criminal charges against Harvey Weinstein as he was facing his trail in relation to the separate allegations in New York.

In LA, he is accused of allegedly raping one woman and sexually assaulting another in separate incidents over a two-day period in 2013.

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What charges is Harvey Weinstein still facing?

Weinstein is charged with one felony count each of forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, sexual penetration by use of force and sexual battery by restraint.

He has pleaded not guilty and has always maintained that any sexual activity was consensual.

It has been more than two years since allegations first came to widespread public attention and catalysed the #MeToo movement.

The first allegations were brought to light by The New York Times and The New Yorker in October 2017.