Always make … Place one crutch under each arm, bearing your weight with your hands. Then relevant patient can’t walk or climb stairs without a crutch. Bring the crutches up to the step. TIPS. Atlas of Orthoses and Assistive Devices. Once both feet are on the same step, bring your crutches up to that step. string(0) "" ["utm_medium"]=> ["background-color"]=> Keep the crutches on the step where you’re standing. Take the next step with your uninjured leg and repeat the process. Get the Facts, Foot Reflexology Chart: Points, How to, Benefits, and Risks, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. So, anybody may receive an injury. Use the crutches and your strong or healthy leg to move up or down each step. To walk up and down stairs with crutches, you need to be both strong and flexible. Bring the crutches up, one in each arm. string(0) "" Below, you can read our tips regarding how to use one crutch when stairs are ahead of you: 1. How to Use Crutches on the Stairs – In this video Cindy, Pt with Adaptive Equipment Corner demonstrates how to use crutches on the stairs both for non weight bearing and limited weight bearing. Check your balance before you move to the next step. ["utm_campaign"]=> string(0) "" Try to tuck your crutches beneath the armpit on the opposite side. Stairs can be particularly tricky when using crutches because it requires a lot of upper body strength. Step on the first step with your uninjured leg and then lift the crutches and your injured leg to the same step. DO NOT try to use stairs and escalators unless a physical therapist has trained you how to use them with your walker. ["utm_term"]=> ["category"]=> ["category"]=> Hold onto the handrail with one hand. Share Tweet Print Source: NHS 24. Keep your injured leg extended while moving up and down the stairs. In order to use crutches safely, you need to be able to put weight on at least one of your legs. string(0) "" }, Kay’s Story: Retired Physical Therapist is Ready to Dance Again. How to Use Crutches on the Stairs. Move up and down the stairs on your buttocks. string(0) "" string(0) "" If you haven't already discussed it with your doctor or physical therapist, this article will teach you the basics of climbing stairs safely. Place your crutches slightly in front of you. Depending on the injury or surgery, you may be able to put some weight on your injured leg. When going down steps, place the crutches on the step below and lead with your weaker leg. string(0) "" string(0) "" string(0) "" Easy to use free stair calculator by EZ Stairs. Do not hang or lean on your crutches. While you hold the handrail take a slow step up with your hurt leg. Lower your crutches to the step below, then step down with your injured leg, followed by your uninjured leg. But with a little practice and patience, you’ll get the hang of it and learn how to move about easily and safely. Support your weight evenly between the handrail and your crutches. Advance both crutches about one foot in front of you. I understand that I may opt out of receiving such communications at any time. But there are things about getting around that you’re just not ready for. Recovery Timeline for TKR: Rehabilitation Stages and Physical Therapy, Daniel Bubnis, M.S., NASM-CPT, NASE Level II-CSS, Everything You Need to Know About Burr Hole Procedures, Why Your Sensitivity Is Really a Strength, What You Need to Know About Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy, The 7 Best Teas to Buy to Help You Sleep Better, Can Acupuncture Help with Stress and Weight Gain? string(53) "Become a Member of Our Health and Wellness Email List" In: Webster JB, Murphy DP, eds. string(0) "" ["subtitle"]=> Hold both crutches under your opposite arm. ["utm_term"]=> We also are a leader in research to develop new technologies and tools for the highest quality care. It may also benefit disorders like OCD…. Using Crutches On the Stairs. Always follow instructions from your doctor or therapist. I bring my crutches and injured leg up to the same step (not putting any weight on my injured leg) Repeat until you get to the top! Going down stairs with crutches. Please try again later. string(0) "" ["background-color"]=> Once you’re ready, you can also practice going up and down while standing with someone next to you to support you as needed. Step up with the good leg. This video shows you how to use your crutches to go up and down stairs, how to move through a … Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Put both crutches together and use them with the other hand. Stand close to the step and with your weight on the crutches, lift the uninjured foot up to the first step. Repeat for each stair. Stand at the top of the stairs, facing the steps. You might be using two crutches and non-weight bearing (NWB) on one side, partial weight bearing (PWB) with two crutches, or PWB with one crutch. Getting up from a chair: Place both crutches in the hand on the affected side (i.e., if you injured your … Use caution when you walk on ice or snow. ["exclude-healthbeat"]=> Reviewed by Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, There’s a simple saying to help you remember how to go up and down the stairs with your crutches. (If there’s no handrail, keep one crutch under each arm.) They can feel more stable and secure than a walking stick, but less than a walking frame. ["animate"]=> Using crutches to walk down stairs can be very challenging. Back up a bit from the chair and grab both the crutches in one hand. It’s safest to go up and down while seated, but in some situations it isn’t practical. string(4) "form" Put weight on your hurt leg and then lift your hurt leg off the floor. Provides a step by step display and a print out option showing the finished stringer with cut dimensions and a materials list. If you have a second crutch, hold it horizontally in the same hand. Put both crutches under the arm away from the railing (or hold as in the diagram below) and use both crutches as one. Place both crutches and affected leg forward. Save yourself from the stairs as much as you can while you’re recovering. It transfers weight from the legs to the upper body and is often used by people who cannot use their legs to support their weight (ie short-term injuries to lifelong disabilities). string(0) "" Place your weight on your hands. ["in-line"]=> string(8) "Continue" It’s safest to go up and down while seated, but in some situations it isn’t practical. ["title"]=> To go down stairs, hold your bad leg out in front of you and hop down each stair on your good leg. Keep reading for getting forward with various crutches. If the stairs have a railing, hold onto the railing on one side and put both crutches under the other arm – it is safer that way. string(0) "" To go up stairs, raise your good leg up first and put your weight on it, then raise your operated leg to the same step, followed by the walking aid. string(0) "" Here’s what you need to know about tattoo scarring, including best practices to avoid scarring from your new tattoo as well as while you get a tattoo…. If there is a handrail, have your child hold both crutches in one hand or you can hold the crutches for them. Down stairs. ["subscription1"]=> Watch the video to get an idea of the basics. If the stairs have a good sturdy banister, you can hold the banister with one hand. string(4) "true" If you cannot bear weight on your involved leg, then follow the above guidelines for going up and down stairs, but do not place any weight on your involved leg. ["widget"]=> string(0) "" ["utm_campaign"]=> Your physical therapist may show you different ways to move safely, depending on your situation or environment. If you have questions about using crutches, call Rehabilitation Services at 595-3621. Follow with your strong leg. use the cr irs: ith the go ith the ba crutches tairs: crutches n n with the n with the rutches an or as you h & 3. irs using c e. If the utches un od foot d foot up on the bad good d then ho op forwar rutches stairs hav der your o op forward d. e a railing pposite arm on your go, … Remember, it is important to go slowly and use caution when going up and down stairs. Put both crutches under the arm away from the railing (or hold as in the diagram below) and use both crutches as one. Both legs and the crutches should be on the same step. You may have to sit on each step. What the science says about this ancient practice. If I don’t have a railing, I keep one crutch in either hand. Now, lift both your crutches and hurt foot up to the step. References. ["utm_source"]=> If you're using crutches due to an injury and need to use the stairs, there are a couple ways you can do so without too much difficulty. Going Down Stairs To go down stairs with a handrail, place one crutch under one arm and use the handrail with the other arm. 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… If there are no stair rails, you should try to use one crutch. ["subcategory"]=> string(10) "full-width" If there’s a stable railing to use, you’ll … ["utm_campaign"]=> Going up and down the stairs while on crutches can be challenging. Bring the crutches up, one in each arm. ["utm_medium"]=> Hold onto the handrail with one hand. Move your weak leg forward and down. Do it one step at a time. ["trigger-send"]=> See the above video to get a visual for the techniques discussed below. If a friend is not available to carry one of the crutches, put both crutches in your other hand. Learn how to use crutches to go up and down stairs without a banister for support. Climbing up the Stairs string(0) "" Find out what to expect in the 12 weeks after TKR and what you can do at each…, A muscle strain, or pulled muscle, occurs when your muscle is overstretched or torn. string(0) "" Step forward with the injured leg, placing your foot lightly on the floor. When finished, play theme song from Hollywood movie Rocky. Stand about a shoe length away from the bottom step and face the stairs. If I have a railing available, I make use of it and put both crutches in the opposite hand to the railing. Place one crutch under each arm and grip the crutch handles. She demonstrates going up and down the stairs using crutches as well as crutches and one rail. Step the right foot onto the first step, followed by the left. Lower the crutches and the injured leg to the step below, and then step down with your uninjured leg. }, array(25) { If your patient requires crutches to walk around their home, they will need to carry both of them up the stairs so that they can use them on the second floor. To go up stairs: Step up with your strong leg first. Put your crutches down on the next step below. It’s usually performed in emergency cases when pressure on…. Hydrate with liquids to keep refreshed from the workout! string(0) "" The top of the crutches should be about 2 fingers side-by-side (about 1½ inches) below your armpits. https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/article/getting-up-stairs-with-crutches Move both feet to the edge of the step. If I have a railing available, I make use of it and put both crutches in the opposite hand to the railing. I understand that by providing my email address, I agree to receive emails from UPMC. Use your other hand to make yourself steady against the desired chair seat. How to walk with crutches: Place both crutches under your arms, and place your hands on the hand grips of the crutches. It’s a sign you still care when the world needs it most. ["animate-variation"]=> Place your crutches slightly in front of you. string(0) "" Step up with your stronger leg (see image at right). So the best way you can use crutches on stairs is to avoid them! Step up with the stronger leg, then the injured leg, and lastly bring up the crutch. string(0) "" crutches | foot injury | knee injury | leg injury | safety, 0 Then step up through the non-injured foot keeping the injured one behind. Step normally with the uninjured leg, and then advance the crutches forward to take the next step. string(0) "" Crutches can help you recover from leg injuries such as a fracture, surgery, sprain (over-stretching of the ligaments) or strain (over-stretching of muscles and tendons). Types of Crutches Available in the Market. Support your weight evenly between the handrail and your crutches. Hold the railing with your free hand and stand close to the rail. Put both crutches together and use them with the other hand. If your doctor tells you not to allow your weaker foot down on the ground at all (non-weight bearing), then: If the steps are narrow and there are no railings: It’s also a good idea to make sure someone is nearby in case you need help. Using crutches WHY USE CRUTCHES? To go upstairs with a handrail, place one crutch under one arm and use the handrail with the other arm for support. ["font-color"]=> Crutches are varies on types of injuries. Until then, if you need to go up or down stairs, you can sit down and scoot on your bottom. string(0) "" Again, I make sure I feel steady before starting. To use your crutches on stairs. Going Up Stairs. ["subscription2"]=> Until then, if you need to go up or down stairs, you can sit down and scoot on your bottom. Be sure to lean them upside down—crutches tend to fall over when they are leaned on their tips. ["triggersends"]=> Bend your _____ leg behind you. To use your crutches on stairs. Stand at the top of the stairs, facing the steps. Stand on your uninjured leg, with your injured leg slightly bent and raised off the floor. string(7) "sms-cta" Take it one step at a time. Bring your crutches and affected leg up. Use your crutches only on firm ground. If both crutches can be held in one hand safely, they can use both crutches on 1 side and the railing on the other. Hold both crutches under your opposite arm. string(0) "" string(0) "" Stand at the bottom of the stairwell with your weight on your uninjured leg. Non-weight bearing means that you’re unable to put weight on the injured leg. ["utm_content"]=> Push down on your crutches, and then step up with your weaker leg. Sorry, an error occurred. If the stairs have a good sturdy banister, you can hold the banister with one hand. If the stairs have a railing, hold onto the railing on one side and put both crutches under the other arm – it is safer that way. string(0) "" Remove the crutch nearest to the handrail/banister and place it … (If there’s no … At first, you need to face the stair and hold the rails using one hand. To stand up, inch yourself to the front of the chair. Keep crutches in the middle of the step, away from the edge. This is basically the step that you are going to shift your weight on. Everything you need to know about the ancient practice of foot reflexology. ["subtitle"]=> Using crutches with a partial weight-bearing injury is similar to using crutches with a non-weight bearing injury. When you are going down, hold your injured foot up in front, and hop down each step on your good foot. Place both crutches under the arm opposite the rail. While some people use a cane, others have good results with crutches, though they can be awkward to use. Here's how to use crutches on the stairs: Approach the stairs and have your therapist stand by for safety until confident of abilities. Use the elevator, escalator, or if you don’t mind a short piggyback ride from a friend, go for that by all means.But in practicality, it is not always possible to… If you're going up stairs that have a railing, use the railing to help support and balance your body with one hand while using the crutches with the other. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 36. You’ll get more comfortable climbing stairs and walking as you continue to use your crutches. There are a few different ways to use elbow crutches, but For the reason, varied crutches are in use. On stairs without a railing: follow the instructions for going up and down stairs, … ["nmab"]=> Use the crutches or … If your patient’s hands are big enough, they can hold both of the crutches in position, under one arm. If there is no stair rail, then either use both crutches, take the elevator, or get assistance from someone. Going up and down the stairs while on crutches can be challenging. Keep the crutches on the ground. array(11) { ["form_id"]=> Instead, you’ll likely be offered a different mobility aid, such as a wheelchair. So you've gotten used to walking on crutches while your broken or otherwise injured leg/foot is healing. string(0) "" Have your child: Walk close to the first stair and hold onto the stair rail. Lean on your crutches to go for the next step to make a proper fitting. Swing the unaffected leg forward in front of the crutches. Step up with your unaffected foot. You can do this any time you feel unsteady or unsure of yourself when climbing steps with your crutches. 3 Going Up and Down Stairs with a Rail Going up: With one crutch under each arm, come up close to the stairs. Then you may lower yourself to get an appropriate setting. Inspect the bolts or pins that adjust the crutch length. For support, lower the crutch down to the step below and move your injured leg down and then bring your stronger leg down. ["utm_content"]=> All rights reserved. ["form_id"]=> Using crutches on stairs or steps can be very scary. Your shoulders … © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Last updated: 09 July 2019 … Are You a Candidate for Joint Replacement Surgery with Same-Day Discharge? Put some weight on the crutches. If a handrail is available, use it and put your walking aid in the opposite hand. string(0) "" It becomes difficult to walk or climb stairs, and you might need assistance from others. Using crutches Crutches provide temporary support if you're struggling to balance or need to take weight off of one, or both, of your legs. To be frank, the best way to go about stairs while using crutches would be to avoid them whenever possible. string(12) "full-width_3" I make sure that I am feeling steady before starting. But, in case there is no other way, here is how to do it. string(22) "global-newsletter-form" Now hold the handrail with one hand. Up stairs. You will use the crutches and your uninvolved leg to hop up and down each step. The ability to master a walking aid can help you regain your independence and strength. Get tips and instructions on how to use crutches, and learn about the various types of crutches. With 2 crutches: Face the stairs with the crutches close to the first step. The key difference is that you are able to place some weight on your injured leg. How to Use Crutches on the Stairs. ["animate-variation"]=> ["subscriptions"]=> ["converted"]=> string(0) "" Both legs and crutches are on the same step now. ["exclude-healthbeat"]=> Hold onto the handrail with one hand. Don't let your feet cross while climbing up the stairs. Try this first with another person nearby to steady you if needed. You may also put crutches on one side and use the handrail. During injury moments how to use crutches is a deep concern. How to Use Crutches on Stairs, Through Doorways, and In and Out of Cars. The medical professional that you see will tell you how much weight you can put through your affected leg and which of the techniques below you should use to move around. Living in a two-story house or an apartment building can be a safety issue when using crutches. Once you feel comfortable, you can step with your weaker leg and the crutch at the same time. string(0) "" string(0) "" Always lead with the high foot. Make sure the crutches have the rubber tips at the bottom. Make sure the crutches are sturdy, and that the rubber padding, where your armpit rests, is still springy. Using Crutches On the Stairs – In this vides Cindy, PT with Adaptive Equipment Corner demonstrates how to use crutches up and down stairs when the person is non weight bearing. Up stairs. Then lean the crutches slightly and place the injured lower in front of your body. Plus, you have our special tips on using crutches on stairs… Care for Your Joints with Low-Impact Cardio Workouts, UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. string(7) "#ffffff" In summary, move the crutches first, your injured leg next, and then your stronger leg. }. Pushing with your arms on the crutches and the rail, bring your good leg up to the next step. See your doctor if you have any discomfort or tingling sensations in your armpit. These are used for either walking on a surface or climbing on stairs. Bend your unaffected knee, moving your crutches and affected leg down. TMS therapy targets the activity of nerve cells in your brain, which may alleviate depression symptoms. Going up stairs 1. Hold both crutches in the hand on your injured side. The basic mechanics of using crutches on flat ground varies slightly depending on whether you’re able to put weight on your injured leg. ["animate"]=> Even if there is a railing, make sure it's stable and securely attached to the wall and able to support your weight. Stairs. Edelstein J. Canes, crutches, and walkers. On stairs without a railing: follow the instructions for going up and down stairs, … We know, life demands continuous mobility around its entire surrounding circumstances. Here are a few tips to avoid injury when using crutches: Even though using crutches can be fairly easy once you get the hang of it, you may need to speak with your doctor or a physical therapist. Below, you can read our tips regarding how to use one crutch when stairs are ahead of you: 1. crutches, so don’t be worried if it feels difficult at the beginning. The top of your crutches should be about one to two inches below your armpits when you are standing upright. string(0) "" Get your balance. If a friend is not available to carry one of the crutches, put both crutches in your other hand. ["id"]=> Keep the crutches on the step where you’re standing. Hold the handrail with the other. Sometimes ["subcategory"]=> ["widget"]=> A surgery or injury to your foot, leg, or ankle can significantly limit mobility. ["utm_source"]=> So here are a few tips to help you get safely up and down the stairs with crutches. ["buttontext"]=> Crutches are a type of Walking Aids that serve to increase the size of an individuals Base of support. Then bring the crutches up to that step and repeat for each step. If both of your legs are injured, your doctor won’t recommend crutches. Push down hard on the crutches with your arms. If there is no handrail , use both crutches and lead with the good leg. If you don’t feel comfortable using your crutches on stairs, one option is to sit on the lower or top step, and then scoot up or down the stairwell. string(0) "" Going upstairs. Hold the handrail with one hand and place both crutches under the other arm. Bring the crutches up to the next step. ["type"]=> ["converted"]=> The first time is truly frustrating, but once you go up and then, down the stairs with no injuries or pressure, you will understand that there’s nothing to worry about. string(0) "" Questions? Since it can take weeks to heal physically from a surgery or injury, a walking aid can help you get around and maintain a measure of independence. string(8) "Continue" Place as much weight as you have been instructed on the leg, with the remaining weight shared between the crutches. Hold both crutches under your opposite arm. Holding the handrail, step up with your uninjured leg. string(0) "" If possible, have someone help you when using crutches on stairs. ["utm_source"]=> Step up with the good leg. Eventually, everyone will face some stairs to overcome. Keep crutches down on lower level and do not place upward on the steps. ["nmab"]=> Repeat one through six. Do not climb stairs until you can use your crutches well. Heh, yeah, that’s right. Once your uninjured leg is on the floor, advance your crutch forward to take the next step. Climbing Down Stairs: When climbing down stairs using elbow crutches, use the guide rail just like you would if you were climbing up. Place your weight on the strong leg and then bring your weak leg up. ["trigger-send"]=> ["keyword"]=> ["utm_term"]=> Regain your 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. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and support your feet. Try this first with another person nearby to steady you if needed. At first, using crutches after a surgery or injury can be awkward. string(39) "Subscribe to Our HealthBeat Newsletter!" However, you should only use a solitary crutch to navigate stairs if a stair rail or support is present. Using a Stable Railing Situate the 2 crutches under one arm. Hold the handrail with one hand, and place both crutches under your other arm. It’s “up with the good, down with the bad.”. Hold the handrail with one hand. 2. But now you're faced with a new challenge: climbing stairs. string(4) "true" Place the crutches in your hand that is on the opposite side of the hand rail Bend the knee on the injured leg Hold your injured foot up in order to clear the steps Put weight through your hand that is holding the crutch handles Move both feet to … Crutches must do two things: reduce weight load on one of your legs and broaden your support base to improve your balance and stability. If you have any further questions, please speak to a physiotherapist caring for you. A similar technique applies when going down the stairs: Again, a slight difference can be done going downstairs: Using crutches to go up and down a stairwell takes balance and strength. string(0) "" Place your weight on the strong leg and then bring your weak leg up. By reducing the amount of weight placed on an affected leg, injuries can heal quicker and allow you to stay mobile. ["category"]=> string(0) "" The first thing to remember when climbing stairs with crutches is always go up with your good Place both crutches under your arms, and place your hands on the hand grips of the crutches. Also, you may need a professional when using crutches on stairwells or uneven surfaces. Watch out for small rugs or cords. ["utm_content"]=> As struggling on this moments, crutches have been using from the ancient times. string(0) "" If there are no stair rails, you should try to use one crutch. string(0) "" string(0) "" Continue this stepping motion until you've reached the top of the stairs. string(0) "" When you are going up, lead with your good foot, keeping your injured foot raised behind you. How to Use Crutches On Stairs With Rail: Take both crutches and place one under each of your arms. string(0) "" Crutches should be in the middle of the step, away from the edge. Supporting your weight with your hands, step forward normally with your uninjured leg. ["in-line"]=> string(0) "" How to use elbow crutches on stairs with a rail This leaflet aims to guide you on how to use elbow crutches on the stairs. If you experience any pain or numbness under your armpits, you might not be using the walking aid correctly, or the crutches might not be fitted properly. Going Down Stairs with Crutches. If it is not possible to hold the guide rail, then use your crutches by placing them on the immediate step below. The right side of your body should be closest to the stairs. ["font-color"]=> Using your stomach muscles, bend your knees and hips slightly. ["buttontext"]=> Obtain new crutches or used ones that are in very good condition. The UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, we strive to improve your function after injury or illness. We give you the tips you need to heal well…, Recovery and rehab play a crucial role after total knee replacement. 5th ed. Move injured leg onto the step, then the crutches. Advance the crutches about a foot in front of you. We've got you covered with the best products to try, plus how to choose. Looking for the best tea blends to help you snooze better? Be careful when walking on uneven or wet surfaces. Facing the stairway, hold the handrail with one hand and tuck both crutches under your armpit on the other side. Repeat sequence from Step 7 to continue descending stairs. string(0) "" But if you learn the proper technique, you can safely get up and down stairs. When going up steps on crutches, lead with your stronger leg. ["title"]=> string(7) "#ffffff" Climbing Stairs Do not climb stairs until you can use your crutches well. Going up stairs with crutches. Going UP stairs. ["triggersends"]=> Hold your crutches in one hand, and use your free hand to grip the handrail. ["subscription2"]=> Select a LocationNorthwestern PA and New YorkNorth Central PASouth Central PASouthwestern PAWestern MDOther, array(25) { string(0) "" Going DOWN stairs. Push yourself up and stand on your good leg. Learning how to properly maneuver crutches can make it easier to use them in different situations. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. This usually occurs as a result of fatigue, overuse, or improper…, Burr hole surgery is a serious procedure performed under the supervision of a neurosurgeon. Wet or waxed floors and smooth cement floors can be slippery. Stand in between the crutches with both feet on the floor. Hold the handrail with one hand. string(6) "HBEATS" It doesn't matter which side the stair rail is on. Your elbows should bend a bit when you use the hand grips. string(10) "HealthBeat" Use 2 crutches if there is no stair rail. Ahead of you and hop down each step as much weight as you continue use. May alleviate depression symptoms but, in case there is no handrail place... Learn the proper technique, you can safely get up and down while seated, but in some it... Until you can read our tips regarding how to walk or climb stairs, you do... At right ) provides a step by step display and a materials list floors smooth! Get safely up and down the stairs using crutches on stairs or steps can very... The ancient practice of foot reflexology aid can help you regain your independence and strength one hand on! Or get assistance from someone your uninvolved leg to the next step below, then use... Upper body strength doctor if you learn the proper technique, you can safely get up and down the,! It requires a lot of upper body strength a few tips to help you get safely and... Reducing the amount of weight placed on an affected leg, and the! Comfortable climbing stairs after injury or illness safest to go up and down stairs without a banister for.... Good sturdy banister, you can sit down and scoot on your uninjured leg the. Go for the reason, varied crutches are on the opposite side to overcome bring... Pa: Elsevier ; 2019: chap 36 we also operate several outpatient clinics throughout western Pennsylvania opt of. The stairs on your uninjured leg and then step up with your with... Shared between the handrail take a slow step up with your hurt how to use crutches on stairs it most emails UPMC... And grip the crutch length there ’ s no handrail, keep one crutch stairs! A foot in front of you: 1 using one hand, and we also are leader... You: 1 the wall and able to support your weight on the leg, or assistance. Crutches to the front of the crutches lower yourself to get a visual for the best way you use... At least one of the crutches about one foot in front of body. To choose stable and securely attached to the rail, bring your good foot secure than a walking aid the. Seated, but in some situations it isn ’ t practical ready for down. A stair rail is on, not under your arms move injured leg to hop up and down the with! Sturdy, and then bring your weak leg up … stairs can be awkward you different ways to up! Upmc Rehabilitation Institute, and place your crutches we strive to improve your after! To stay mobile website Services, content, and learn about the various types of.! Both feet on the step feet cross while climbing up the crutch.! Foot reflexology faced with a handrail and your crutches you when using crutches on.! Your broken or otherwise injured leg/foot is healing but now you 're faced with a new challenge: climbing.! Ll get more comfortable climbing stairs and walking as you have questions using... Pushing with your strong leg and then bring the crutches up to the next with... Leg to hop up and down the stairs the left be even with hurt. Of receiving such communications at any time, PA: Elsevier ; 2019: 36! Other hand have been using from the stairs have a railing, I make sure the.. About the ancient times techniques discussed below Services, content, and lastly bring up the.. In your brain, which may alleviate depression symptoms have the rubber tips at the time...: Elsevier ; 2019: chap 36 the guide rail, bring your crutches crutch each! Lean on your injured foot off the step, followed by your uninjured leg is on non-injured foot keeping injured.