Navigating stairs with crutches requires precise technique for safety and mobility during recovery. This guide outlines the steps for using crutches on stairs, focusing on proper body mechanics and safety.
Preparation and Safety Fundamentals
Before navigating stairs, ensure your crutches are properly fitted. The top of the crutches should be positioned two to three finger-widths below your armpits, allowing your elbows to be slightly bent, 15 to 30 degrees, when gripping the handholds. This fit supports weight through hands and arms, preventing nerve damage.
Inspect crutch tips regularly; they should be free from wear, cracks, or thinning to ensure traction and prevent slips. Visually check stairs for hazards such as wet spots, loose debris, or uneven surfaces. Consider having someone assist you, especially initially, by standing a step below or behind.
A helpful mnemonic for stair negotiation is “good leg goes to heaven, bad leg goes to hell,” meaning the uninjured leg leads when going up, and the injured leg leads when going down.
Ascending Stairs with Crutches
Approach the staircase, positioning yourself close to the bottom step. If a handrail is available, use it for stability.
Hold the handrail with the hand on your uninjured side, keeping both crutches tucked under the arm on your injured side. This allows the handrail to provide support.
Step up onto the first step with your uninjured leg. Bring your injured leg and both crutches up to the same step. Ensure balance before proceeding.
If no handrail is present, keep one crutch under each arm. Move your injured leg and the crutches together as a single unit, then step up with your uninjured leg.
Descending Stairs with Crutches
Position yourself at the edge of the top step. If a handrail is available, grasp it with the hand on your uninjured side, tucking both crutches under the arm on your injured side. This positions the crutches to lead downwards.
Place your crutches and injured leg down onto the step below, ensuring crutch tips are on the step. Maintain balance by leaning slightly forward, supporting weight through your hands on the crutches and handrail.
Bring your uninjured leg down to join your crutches and injured leg on the same step. Repeat this process for each stair, ensuring stability.
If a handrail is not available, keep one crutch under each arm. Move your crutches and injured leg to the lower step simultaneously, then follow with your uninjured leg.
Variations and Important Considerations
A single crutch can be used. Hold it on the side opposite your injured leg.
When navigating stairs with a single crutch, the “up with the good, down with the bad” principle still applies, with the crutch moving in conjunction with the injured leg.
Listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Avoid rushing; maintaining balance prevents falls.
For slippery, narrow, or steep stairs, it may be safer to sit down and scoot up or down each step, holding the crutches in one hand. Consult a medical professional or physical therapist for personalized guidance, especially if you have specific restrictions or concerns.