How to Use Crutches with Armpits

Efficient use of crutches takes practice.

Crutch-like devices have been around since 2830 B.C., according to eMedicine Health. They are used as a mobility aid when you injure a body part such as your foot or leg. Crutches can be made out of aluminum or wood and have energy-storing tips that work as shock absorbers. Use of crutches can reduce recovery time, decrease comfort and assist in walking for low-limb injuries.

Things You'll Need

• Crutches

Instructions

Preparation

1. Remove all rugs, electrical cords, children's toys and anything else that could cause you to fall.

2. Place non-slip mats in the bathroom. From your local home health-care store purchase and install grab bars for your bathtub or shower to promote security and safety for that first slippery step.

3. Purchase and install a raised toilet seat and a shower tub seat for added safety.

Instructions

1. Adjust the crutches so that the armpits of the crutches are between 1 and 1.5 inches below your body armpits when you are standing up straight. The hand grips of the crutches should be even with the top of your hip. Make sure to bend your elbows a little when you position your hands on the grips.

2. Position the top of the crutches tightly to the sides of your body while you place your hands into the hand-grips. Use your hands to absorb and hold up your weight while ensuring your armpits don't press against the crutch's armpits.

3. Begin by focusing on where you will walk and not your feet. Lean slightly forward and position the crutches one foot ahead of you. Begin by taking a step with the injured foot or leg but shift your weight to the crutches instead of the injured body part. Your body will swing forward between the crutches. Finish the step as you would normally using your non-injured leg. Lean slightly forward and position the crutches one foot ahead of you in preparation for the next step.

4. Position a sturdy chair for sitting in an area where there is lots of room to maneuver your body and the crutches. Back up to the chair. Use the non-injured side of your body to absorb and hold your weight in an upright position. Hold the crutches by the grips in your hand on the injured side of your body. Grab onto the chair with the other hand and slowly lower yourself onto the seat's surface. Keep your injured leg off the ground while executing this motion.

5. Climb the stairs by first getting as close to the stairs as possible. Use your non-injured side to take the first step up onto the stair and then bring the crutches and the injured leg onto the same stair. Repeat this process to climb the stairs. To descend bring the crutches and the injured leg down to the lower step and then step down with the non-injured side. Repeat this process to go down the stairs. If your stars have a handrail put both crutches under the opposite arm of the handrail and use the rail for support as you go down the stairs.

6. Go through a doorway by giving yourself enough room to allow your feet and crutches to clear the door without hitting any permanent objects. Open the door and hold it open by using the tip of your crutch. Use the crutch that is available to take a step through the doorway.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry a backpack or use an apron to carry items around that you will need to use often, such as medication and water.

• Simplify your household by placing items that you will need in an easy-to-reach place.

• Be careful not to slip on water or ice when using your crutches outdoors.

• The crutches may rub against the skin between your arm and chest. You can prevent chafing by using body lotion or talcum powder.

• Do not lean on the crutches armpits. There should be no pressure in this area. If there is pressure try adjusting the length of the crutches to shorten them.

References

• AAOS: How to use Crutches
• University Sports Medicine: Crutches
• EMedicine Health: Crutches