Here are tips for using crutches comfortably and safely.

Most of us will never need to use crutches, but for those who need to immobilize a leg, foot or ankle, crutches are invaluable. Using your crutches correctly requires a little practice and can make a huge difference in how your injury heals and your ability to go up and down stairs, get up from a chair, etc.

Sizing Your Crutches

First, use crutches that are the right size for you. Most crutches are adjustable, so you can fine tune the height of the crutches as well as the placement of the handgrip. Even if you are measured for crutches, individualize the height for your own comfort and make adjustments that make using the crutches feel most comfortable to you.

Some general guidelines for underarm style crutches:

    * Crutch length (top to bottom). Total crutch length should equal the distance from your armpit to about 6" in front of your shoe.
    * Crutch pad distance from armpits. With your shoulders relaxed, the crutch pads (tops of crutches) should be 1.5" to 2" (about two finger widths) below the armpits.
    * Handgrip. Place your hand on the grip so your elbow is flexed about 15 to 30 degrees - enough so you can fully extend your elbow when you take a step.

It's important to remember that your weight should be supported by your hands on the hand pads. The underarm pads should not be pressed up under the armpits, but should be pressed against the sides of your chest. Crutches should be positioned slightly to the side and forward to provide a stable base.




Walking and Standing with Crutches

Walking with Crutches

Lean forward slightly and move both crutches about one foot in front of you. Shift your weight to the crutches and swing forward.

Swing your good leg forward between the crutches and place it in front of you on the ground. Now, shift your weight to your good leg and start your next step by moving the crutches about one foot in front of you.

Remember to look ahead to where you are walking.  It's tempting to look at your feet but you should look up to see where you are headed.

Standing Up with Crutches

Hold both crutches in the hand on your injured side. Move to the front edge of the chair.

Hold the arm of the chair with the free hand. Put your weight on your good leg, push yourself up with your arms and stand on your good leg. Now you can put one crutch in each hand and are ready to move.

Managing Stairs

Stairs can present a challenge. Ideally, choose a set of steps with a handrail. Take it one step at a time and ask someone to "spot" you the first time you try. Remember, if you are unable to follow these instructions, you can always try sitting on the stairs and inch yourself up or down one step at a time.

Going Up Stairs with Crutches

If there is no handrail, use both crutches and lead with the good leg. Stand close to the step and with your weight on the crutches; lift your good leg up to the first step. Once your weight is on the good leg, bring the crutches up to the same step. Repeat this process on each step.

If there is a handrail, use it. Hold both crutches in one hand, hold the handrail with the other, and with all your weight on your arms, bring the good leg up one step. Then bring the crutches up to that step and repeat for each step.

Going Down Stairs with Crutches

To go down stairs, hold your bad leg out in front of you and hop down each stair on your good leg. Use the crutches or handrails as above. This can be very challenging for some.

Helpful Accessories

Depending on the situation and length of time you will be using crutches, there are devices that may make navigation easier. If you suffer from a foot or ankle injury, many find the knee walker to be helpful. A knee walker is a small, steerable four wheeled device that allows you to rest your knee on the padded seat and push with your good leg. The short turning radius and hand brakes allow navigation in tight spots while giving your arms a break from using crutches.

Available accessories such as ice pick grips, padded and gel grip covers, and a crutch pouch, to carry essentials and free up your hands, make walking with crutches safe and comfortable. In no time at all, you will have mastered the use of crutches. Of course, by that time, you may no longer need them!