When you are physically injured, the doctor or physiotherapist may prescribe crutches so you can walk around while recovering. Crutches in general are beneficial because they offer greater amount of stability and receives a considerable amount of weight transfer. So if you have an injure ankle for example the crutches can handle almost around 80% of the weight that that ankle needs to bear.

Types of Crutches

There are different crutches prescribed for different kinds of patients:

  • Axillary – this is the most commonly seen crutches. They are used by patients with good to normal upper limb strength.
  • Forearm – The more famous forearm crutches are the Loftstrand where a band grips the forearm as support.
  • Platform – this is used for patients who cannot bear weight on the wrists or hands.

You will know if the crutches will fit you if you place both devices slightly forward and you can observe a slight bending of the wrists and elbows.

Different Walking Styles

If you are just starting to use the crutches it is best to walk as slowly as possible to avoid falls. Move your crutches forward, step your good or uninjured leg forward. Also refrain from leaning too much on the axillary pads of the crutches to avoid impinging any nerves.

Swing-to Gait

When you are more accustomed to walking with crutches you can use Swing-to Gait tempo, it is faster than using the method above. With Swing–to–Gait, you move the crutches forward then you let you body swing like a pendulum so your feet will just be slightly behind the tips of the crutches.

Swing thru Gait

You will need a little more time for you to use the Swing thru Gait. It is faster than the point system and the swing to gait pattern. Swing thru involves placing the crutches forward, and you ultimately swing your feet like a pendulum advancing beyond the tips of the crutches. Here, every step is a preparation for the next step.

If you cannot avoid the stairs follow this tip: When going up, your uninjured leg goes first so it is the one that will push your body up. Hold both crutches on the side opposite the railings to provide a bit of support. Going down involves the opposite, injured leg goes down first with the crutches providing a bit of support.