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Use of Crutches

Date issued: December 2022 

Review date: December 2024

Ref: A-541/NB/ED/Use of Crutches

PDF:  Use of Crutches final December 2022.pdf [pdf] 133KB

How do I walk with crutches?

You should have been told whether you should avoid putting any weight on the leg (non-weight-bearing) or whether you can put some weight on the leg (partial weight-bearing).

Non weight bearing

  1. Keep the affected leg off the ground by holding it slightly in front with the knee slightly bent.

  2. Move the crutches one pace forward, slightly apart and level.

  3. Move body forward between the crutches allowing the unaffected leg to swing through.

Partial weight bearing (The injured leg can take some weight)

  1. Move the crutches one pace forward.

  2. Place the affected leg on the ground level with the crutches, which support some of the body weight.

  3. Step through with the unaffected leg.

How do I sit?

  1. Stand in front of the chair ready to sit down.

  2. Remove both arms from the crutches and hold them in one hand.

  3. Hold the chair arm with the other hand.

  4. Sit down gently.

How do I stand?

  1. Hold both crutches in one hand.

  2. Push up from the chair.

  3. Once standing transfer one crutch into each hand.

  4. Put the crutches in front of you and get your balance.

How do I go up and down stairs?

  1. Hold onto at least one handrail if possible.

  2. Hold the spare crutch together with the handle of the remaining crutch.

  3. The crutches go on the same step as the affected leg.

  • Going up the unaffected leg goes first without the crutches.
  • Going down the affected leg goes first with the crutches.

Please be aware it is very important that you see your doctor immediately if you notice that the calf becomes increasingly tender, red, and hot to touch.       
DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) is a rare complication following any injury which may limit your mobility as it heals. Symptoms to be aware of and to report include:

  • throbbing or cramping pain in 1 leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh    

  • swelling in 1 leg (rarely both legs)     

  • warm skin around the painful area                                          

  • red or darkened skin around the painful area                         

  • swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them

Call 999 or attend the Emergency Department if you develop chest pain or breathlessness

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