How to Use Crutches Properly

Ever had to use crutches? I am sure those who had to use it will vouch for the fact that it is not easy. Several aspects are involved in being able to use crutches properly. The best way of course is to ask and consult your doctor. However, if you are using crutches now and cannot go to the doctor, the second best way is to read the following text!

If you have seen your friend or anyone using crutches, at first look, it does not seem to be a big deal about how to use it. But actually it is.

The first and most vital condition is that the crutches fit properly. For that make sure that the top of your crutches is about 1 - 2 two inches below your armpits while you are standing upright. Once this is fine, things will be easier.

When you use the crutches, the handgrips of the crutches have to be even with your hip and your elbows have to be slightly bent when you use the hand grips. Further, your shoulders need to lean forward slightly when you use crutches.

While walking, place both the crutches in front of you and then shift your weight and the uninjured leg ahead. Always take small steps, not bigger than 1 or 1/2 feet. Looking ahead and not looking at your feet is essential when you are using crutches. Also be aware of the fact that crutches will require more room on the sides and can get entangled in things. So make sure there is enough space therefore when you walk.

For using crutches to stand up from a chair, you will have to move towards the edge of the sofa or couch or chair and hold the crutches on the side of your injury. Simultaneously with your free hand hold the chair or anything you were sitting on for support. Then put your weight on the uninjured leg and then support yourself on your arms to stand on the leg which is okay. Weight bearing has to be proper especially when you use crutches during knee injury recovery.

Now we will tackle a difficult part related to using crutches and that is climbing up and down the stairs. Take a look.

Hope that there is handrail, first of all! Holding both crutches in one hand, grab the handrail (if there is one) with the other. Support all your weight on your arms and bring the good leg up one step. Then bring the crutches up to that step and do the same for each step. If there is no handrail, then use both crutches while leading with the good leg. For doing this, stand near the step first. Then, put your weight on the crutches and after you do that, lift the uninjured foot up to the first step. After the weight is on the good leg, get the crutches to the same step.

This is trickier and more difficult than climbing up, so please be careful. For starters, hold your injured foot out in front of you and hop down each stair on your uninjured foot to come down the stairs. Or if you hoped for handrails and they are there, you can use them. If all these are not possible, try and sit on the stairs, inching your way down each step. It is especially important when you are dealing with ankle pain on account of a broken ankle.

A few final words on how to use crutches! Even when you are resting, try to avoid resting your armpits on the crutches and make sure that the padding is in good shape. Most of all, take care with each and every step and speak to the doctor in case of any problem.