Learning to walk with crutches and walkers
how to use crutches · walker · cane · walking with support
A specialist fits crutches, a walker or a cane to your height and teaches you to use them correctly. Walking becomes safer and easier.
After a leg injury or operation, with weakness, after a stroke, and for older people at risk of falling.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 40 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Aids. If you already have crutches or a walker, bring them. They will be adjusted to your height.
- Shoes. Closed shoes with a non-slip sole and a heel counter.
- Home. Remove rugs and cords from the floor and clear the walkways.
What to bring
- Crutches, a walker or a cane, if you have them
- Comfortable shoes
- Discharge papers with the doctor's instructions
How it goes
- The specialist adjusts the height of the aid to your height
- Teaches you to stand up from a chair and sit down using the aid
- Shows the order of steps: aid first, then the sore leg, then the healthy leg
- Practices turns
- Teaches you to go up and down stairs
- Gives tips on making your home safer
What you'll feel
- At first it feels strange and your arms tire quickly
- You may be afraid of falling. The specialist will be right next to you
Afterwards
- Practice a little, several times a day
- Replace the rubber tips when they wear down
- Do not carry things in your hands. Use a backpack or a shoulder bag
Contact a doctor straight away if
- You fell and your leg hurts a lot
- Pain and numbness in the armpits from crutches: the height is wrong
Common questions
How do I use stairs with crutches?
Going up, the healthy leg goes first; going down, the crutches and the sore leg go first. The specialist will show you.
Which is better, crutches or a walker?
A walker is steadier; crutches are faster and easier on stairs. The specialist will choose.