Cindy demonstrates how to use crutches to go up and down stairs when not weight-bearing. She uses crutches and one rail. It is important to always use caution and go slowly on the stairs due to increased balance issues when not or limited weight-bearing.
0:42 | Coming UP stairs with crutches - Non weight bearing
1:25 | Coming UP stairs with crutches using handrail - Non and Partial weight bearing
2:07 | Going DOWN stairs with crutches - Nonweight bearing
2:55 | Going DOWN stairs with crutches using a handrail - Non and Partial weight bearing
Going Up the Stairs with Crutches
When nonweight bearing, approach the stairs, bend the knee on the injured leg, pulling the foot up in order to clear the steps
Bear weight through the hands onto the crutches as you step up with the good leg first step, followed by the crutches
If you can bear limited weight on the injured leg, you will still bear weight through the hands on the crutches and limited weight on the injured leg as you step up with the good leg, followed by the crutches and injured leg.
Going Up the Stairs with Crutches and a Rail
When non-weight bearing, place the crutches on the opposite side of the rail, bend the knee on the injured leg, pulling the foot up in order to clear the steps
Put weight through your hand on the crutch handles and through the hand on the rail
Step up with the good leg, followed by the crutches
If you can bear limited weight on the injured leg, put weight through your hand on the crutch handles, through the hand on the rail, and limited weight on the injured leg as you step up with the good, followed by the crutches and the injured leg
Going Down the Stairs
When non-weight bearing, hold the injured leg out forward in order to clear the step
Put the crutches down the first step, bear weight through the crutch handles as you step down with the good leg
If you can bear limited weight on your injured leg, advance the crutches down first, bearing weight on the crutches as you step down with the injured leg, followed by the good leg
Going Down the Stairs with Crutches and a Rail
When non-weight bearing, place the crutches on the opposite side of the rail
Hold the injured leg out forward to clear the step, balance on the good leg and with the rail as you put the crutches on the step below you
Put weight through your hand on the crutch handles and through the hand on the rail, advancing the good leg down the step
If you can bear limited weight on your injured leg, advance the crutches down first, put weight on the good leg through your hand on the crutch handles and through the hand on the rail while stepping down with the injured leg, followed by the good leg
Please consult with your local physical therapist regarding your specific circumstances!
Axillary Crutches used in the demonstration above
Cardinal Health Axillary Crutches
amzn.to/2KMEJWj (affiliate link)
See the related video links below for further instructions on the use of crutches:
How to Adjust Crutches
• How to Adjust Crutches
How to Walk with Crutches
• How to Sit, Stand and ...
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