How to use crutches 1

How to use crutches

Precautions before using crutches:
1. Stand straight and hold the handle of the cane with both hands to support your weight, with the foot of the cane about 12-20 cm away from your foot;
2. Adjust the cane to the appropriate height, with the top of the cane about 2-3 fingers wide from the armpit. Remember not to use the armpit to support the cane, as there are important blood vessels and nerves passing through the armpit to avoid compression damage;
3. The position of the handle of the crutch needs to be adjusted to the level of the wrist when the arms naturally droop. When you use the crutch to support, the elbow joint can be bent appropriately;
To avoid pelvic tilt and unequal leg length caused by long-term crutch support, it is not recommended to use a single crutch.

Attention: The doctor will guide you on the weight bearing level of the affected leg when using double crutches based on the actual situation and the following methods:
1. No weight bearing: that is, the affected leg is not subjected to force, keeping your affected leg off the ground;
2. Light weight bearing: Balance can be maintained by touching the ground with the sole of the foot;
3. Partial weight bearing: It is possible to share some of the body weight on the affected leg, with one finger pointing to 1/3-1/2 of the weight;
4. Can tolerate weight bearing: Load most or even all of the weight onto the affected foot, and be patient;
5. Full weight bearing: Full weight bearing, as long as there is no pain.

Walking with crutches:
1. Support the crutches on both sides of the feet to maintain stability;
2. Do not use your armpits directly against the cane, straighten your elbows, and support your weight with both hands;
3. Move forward with both turns simultaneously;
4. Move the affected leg forward in the same plane between the two crutches;
5. Swipe the normal leg forward and place it in front of the double crutches;
6. Repeatedly, you can walk forward (double crutches → affected leg → normal leg).
Tip: Follow the crutches with both legs, walk with the affected leg first, and keep up with the good leg.