Do not lean on the underarm supports; Always support your weight using the handgrips of the crutches. How to fit your crutches: Stand tall with your shoes on. If there are no stair rails, you should try to use one crutch. How to Use Crutches Standing. Using crutches, a cane, or a walker can help keep your weight off your injured or weak leg, assist with balance, and enable you to perform your daily activities more safely. Keep the weight off the "bad" leg. When you are first learning to use your walking aid, you may wish to have a friend or family … Place the crutch under the arm opposite your injured leg. Too much pressure under your arms could irritate the sensitive nerves in the underarm area. Put the crutches under your arms. Wet or waxed floors and smooth cement floors can be slippery. Use your crutches only on firm ground. Stand up straight with crutches placed slightly forward and out to the side. When using a single crutch, you'll have to decide which side to use it on. Correct crutch balance. Medical professionals recommend placing the crutch under the arm on the side of your healthy leg — or in other words, on the opposite side of your injured leg. Stretch the "bad" leg out straight. Instructions for Using Crutches. Keep the crutches on the step where you’re standing. Whether you need assistance during recovery with weight bearing restrictions or you’re looking for a long-term aid, crutches can help get you up and walking again. Push down on your crutches, and then step up with your weaker leg. Crutches should be in the middle of the step, away from the edge. There should be a two inch space between your armpit and the top of the crutch with your hands hanging relaxed. Make sure your shoes have low heels and good support. Crutches are used to support mobility needs. Start close to the bottom step. How to walk with crutches: Place both crutches under your arms, and place your hands on the hand grips of the crutches. Push on chair, crutches, and the "good" leg; stand up. Make sure the chair is stable. Use the crutches with 1 hand and the side of the chair with the other hand. Watch out for small rugs or cords. If necessary, have someone stand behind you. Once both feet are on the same step, bring your crutches up to that step. Adjust the height of the crutch: Adjusting the height usually involves pushing in a small button and adjusting its position within the base of the crutch. Use caution when you walk on ice or snow. The key difference is that you are able to place some weight on your injured leg. Place your crutches slightly in front of you. Sizing Crutches Even if you’ve already been fitted for crutches, make sure your crutch pads and handgrips are set at the proper distance, as follows: Crutch pad distance from armpits: The crutch pads (tops of crutches) should be 1½" to 2" (about two finger widths) below the armpits, with the shoulders relaxed. Avoids potential accidents or falls. Relax your arms and let them hang down over the crutches. Weight bearing Step up with your stronger leg (see image at right). Hold the hand grips of both crutches in 1 hand. Balance. In this case, it’s actually better to ask for help or get the elevator as it’s going to be hard for you to walk up or down the stairs with two crutches, as well. Here’s your simple guide to properly fitting crutches: 1. Below, you can read our tips regarding how to use one crutch when stairs are ahead of you: 1. 2. This video draws upon the expertise of one of the physical therapists at The Nebraska Medical Center to show you the proper way to use crutches. Using crutches with a partial weight-bearing injury is similar to using crutches with a non-weight bearing injury. Fitting crutches correctly can minimize fatigue of your non-injured leg. Place the crutch with your weaker leg in 1 hand and the `` good '' leg your on... 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