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Understanding Healthcare
Using Crutches Safely
Using Crutches SafelyCrutches take the weight off an injured leg or foot while it heals and keep you balanced as you walk.“It’s important to use crutches correctly so that you prevent any further injury or falls. First, we want toget the right fit.”Stand up tall and place the crutches under your arms. Leave a two-finger width space between the top of thecrutch and your armpit. Your wrists should be even with the handgrips. Your elbows should bend about 30degrees with your hands on the grips. To walk, move your crutches forward. Swing your injured leg forwardslightly as if you were about to take a step. Then, take a step with your uninjured leg, supporting your weighton your arms.“You want to make sure that you support your weight using your hands and arms, and not your armpits.You also want to make sure that you have a friend nearby when you’re starting in case you lose yourbalance or need some help.”To sit down, move backwards toward the chair or bed until you feel it against your leg. Move both crutches tothe injured side and hold them in one hand. Reach with the other hand for nearby surface such as a table orarmrest. Let your injured leg slide out in front of you as you sit down. To stand up, move both crutches to theinjured side. Move the injured leg forward. Use the non-injured leg and both arms to push yourself up tostanding.Navigating stairs with crutches can be especially challenging. To climb stairs safely, get as close to the firststep as possible. Place both crutches under one armpit and grab the railing with your other hand. Step up withthe uninjured leg. Bring your crutches up to the step you’re now standing on and repeat the process.To go down stairs, hold the handrail with one hand and your crutches in the other. Bring your injured legforward and move your crutches to the next step down. Using your arms to support you, step down with theuninjured leg. To reduce the risk of falling, keep stairs and floors throughout the house free of clutter. Removerugs, cords, or other objects that could cause you to trip. And use a backpack or fanny pack for items so yourhands are free while you’re walking.“By taking a few precautions and practicing, you’ll learn how to use the crutches safely and be moremobile. Don’t worry, it will take some time, but you’ll get the hang of it.”This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG54639A EN UsingCrutchesSafely.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 1
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