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Using crutches safely

Crutches are used after a leg or foot injury, surgery, or in any condition where the person is not able to safely bear weight on the leg. Crutches offer support when full weight cannot be placed on the leg. They help a person get around safely. If crutches are recommended, the following information will help in using them correctly.

Crutches must be fitted to each person. Stand up straight with the palm of your hand pressed against your body under your arm. Your hand should fit between the top of the crutches and your armpit. When using crutches, your elbow should be slightly bent at about 30 degrees and your hands, not the armpits, should support your weight. Weight on the armpits can cause nerve damage. If anything needs to be carried, it is best to use a backpack.

Practice standing and balancing before walking. There are a number of different ways to walk with crutches. The healthcare provider will instruct how much weight may be put down when walking.

Guidelines for using crutches safely:

• Stand on the uninjured leg and place the crutches about 12 inches in front of the feet. The space between the crutches should be wide enough so there is also 12 inches on each side of the feet.
• The hands should support the weight of the body. Swing the body forward so that your feet land just between the crutches. Placing the feet past the crutches may be faster, but requires more balance to stay safe.
• Allow the uninjured leg to land first, and then put the other foot down with the amount of weight that is allowed.

When using stairs remember this saying, "Up with the good and down with the bad." This will help to remember which leg goes first:

• going up: step up with the uninjured leg before bringing the crutches and injured leg up
• going down: place the crutches on the step below, extend the injured leg down, and step down with the strong leg last

Always practice with someone present before using crutches alone.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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