Crutches

Proper Measurement:

1. The tops of the crutches should be at least two finger widths deep from the armpit; make sure the shoulders are relaxed.
2. When the arms are hanging straight down, the handgrips should be at wrist level.
3. Hold the tops of the crutches firmly between the chest and the inside of the upper arm. Do not allow the tops of the crutches to push up into the armpits (constant pressure may damage nerves and blood vessels). Support your weight with your hands on the handgrips, which should be padded.
4. When standing still, keep the crutches slightly ahead and apart. Remember, do not let the tops of the crutches push up into the armpits; stand straight.

Walking (Non-Weight Bearing):

1. Put the crutches forward about one step’s length; keep the injured leg slightly up and away from the floor.
2. Push down on the crutches with the hands and squeeze the top of the crutches between the chest and arm.
3. Swing the uninjured leg forward; be careful not to swing it too far.
4. Now step on the uninjured leg.

Walking (Partial Weight Bearing – 2 Crutches):

1. Put the crutches forward about one step's length.
2. Put the uninjured leg forward, level with the crutch tips.
3. Take most of the weight off of the injured leg by pushing down on the handgrips and squeezing the tops of the crutches between the chest and arm.
4. Take a step with the uninjured leg.
5. Make steps of equal length.

Walking (Partial Weight Bearing – 1 Crutch):

1. Place the crutch under the arm opposite the injured leg.
2. Step with the crutch and injured leg
3. Then step with the uninjured leg.

Stairs:

1. Use one crutch and the stair rail, if available (it doesn’t matter which side the stair rail is on). Only use the railing if it is stable and there is someone to carry the other crutch. Use two crutches if there is no stair rail.
2. If both crutches can be held in one hand safely, use both crutches on one side and the railing on the other.

Walking Up Stairs:

1. Walk close to the first stair and hold onto the stair rail.
2. Hold onto the rail with one hand and the crutch with the other hand.
3. Push down on the stair rail and the crutch, and step up with the uninjured leg.
4. If non-weight bearing, hop up with the uninjured leg.
5. Bring the injured leg and the crutches up beside the uninjured leg.
6. Remember: the uninjured leg goes up first and the crutches move with the injured leg.

Walking Down Stairs:

• Walk to the edge of the stairs in the same way.
• Place the injured leg and the crutches down on the step below; support your weight by leaning on the crutches and the stair rail.
• Bring the uninjured leg down; remember: the uninjured leg goes down first and the crutches move with the injured leg.
• Use the same rules when going up and down curbs or doorsteps.