Walking with crutches takes some practice, but it's not difficult.
How to Walk with CrutchesWalking with crutches takes some practice, but it's not difficult.We'll show you how to use different gaits with your crutches, depending on whether you are allowed to put weight on the injured leg or foot.To start, make sure you are in a balanced standing position.Position the tips of your crutches about 6 inches in front of your feet and about 6 inches to the side of each foot. This is called the tripod position. It's the starting position when using crutches, no matter which gait you are to use.When using crutches, be sure to use your arms, not your shoulders, to support your body weight. Keep your elbows close to your body, and press down on the hand grips.Don't use your underarms to support your body weight. You could damage the nerves and circulation in this area.Keep your elbows and knees slightly bent.Let's cover the four-point gait first. For this gait, you are able to put some weight on both feet.To use this gait, get into the tripod position and then: Move the right crutch forward about 6 inches. Then move the left foot forward about 6 inches. Move the left crutch forward about 6 inches, and then move the right foot forward to about the level of the left crutch. Repeat this sequence.Now let's try the two-point gait. For this gait, you are also able to bear some weight on both feet.To use this gait, get into the tripod position and then: Move the left crutch and right foot forward. Move the right crutch and left foot forward. Repeat this sequence.Next, let's try the three-point gait. For this gait, you are able to put weight on only one foot.To use this gait, get into the tripod position and then: Move both crutches forward and the injured foot or leg forward. Move your uninjured foot or leg forward ahead of the injured foot or leg. Repeat this sequence.Next, let's look at two gaits to use when you cannot put weight on your leg or foot. The first is called the swing-to gait.Begin with the tripod position and then: Move both crutches forward. Lift your affected leg or foot and swing to the crutches. Land on your unaffected leg or foot, making sure to support your body weight on the crutches.Keep your injured leg slightly bent and off the floor. Then reach forward with your crutches to start the next step.For the "swing-through" gait, begin with the tripod position and then: Follow the same steps as for the swing-to gait, but instead swing your body through the crutches. Land on your unaffected foot about 12 inches in front of the crutches. Then reach forward with your crutches to start the next step.
Author: Sinovic, Dianna
Online Medical Reviewer: Foley, Maryann, RN, BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Turley, Ray, BSN, MSN
Date Last Reviewed: 07/01/2021
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