Scooting becomes necessary when a temporary mobility issue, such as a lower-body injury or post-surgical recovery, prevents the normal alternating step pattern on stairs. This method relies on carefully controlled, one-step-at-a-time movements to minimize stress on the compromised limb and reduce the risk of a fall. The techniques for moving up and down stairs are distinct because the mechanics of lifting and lowering body weight differ. Mastering these sequential movements ensures the stronger, uninjured limb always bears the maximum load.
Essential Safety and Preparation
Before attempting to use the stairs, a few safety measures must be addressed to create a secure environment. Begin by ensuring the path is clear of all clutter, such as shoes, loose rugs, or any items that could create a tripping hazard on the steps or landing. Adequate lighting is also necessary so you can clearly see the edge of each step and accurately place your feet. Wear supportive, flat shoes with non-slip soles, avoiding slippers or socks, which can easily slide on the hard edges of the stairs.
A fundamental principle for stair negotiation is “Up with the good, down with the bad.” The “good” leg is the strong, uninjured one, while the “bad” leg is the compromised limb that requires protection. Understanding this rule dictates the leading leg for both ascent and descent. This ensures the stronger muscles are always positioned to manage the greater forces of lifting and lowering the body weight.
How to Go Up Stairs
When moving upward, the objective is to use the powerful extensor muscles of the strong leg to lift your entire body mass against gravity. Begin by standing at the base of the stairs, facing upward, and place your hand firmly on the handrail for balance. The strong, uninjured leg should initiate the movement, stepping onto the first riser.
The quadriceps muscle group in the strong leg contracts to lift your body weight vertically onto the step. Once stabilized, bring the injured leg up to the same step, keeping it relatively unweighted. Repeat this sequence—strong leg up, followed by the injured leg—one step at a time, until you reach the landing.
How to Go Down Stairs
Descending the stairs requires more control and is typically considered the more challenging movement because it relies on eccentric muscle contraction to slow the body’s momentum. Start at the top, facing down, with a secure grip on the handrail. The injured leg should lead the descent by moving first to the step below.
Next, the strong leg follows, slowly lowering the body to the same step, with the knee bending to control the downward movement. This requires the strong leg to bear the full load and regulate the speed of descent. Repeating this pattern—injured leg down, followed by the strong leg—ensures the strong limb is always on the upper step, controlling the body’s center of gravity.
Using Assistive Devices Safely
The technique must be modified to use a handrail effectively alongside an assistive device like crutches or a cane. If a handrail is available, consolidate both crutches or the cane into the hand opposite the rail. This allows the free hand to grasp the handrail, maximizing stability by using two points of support—the rail and the assistive device.
When ascending, the strong leg steps up first, followed by the injured leg and the crutches/cane together onto the same step. When descending, the crutches/cane and the injured leg move down to the lower step simultaneously. The strong leg then follows, controlling the weight transfer.