It does take some coordination to use crutches and being an athlete I have mastered the use of crutches in 2 weeks. It is ironic that I am a Physical Therapist for Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center in Howell, NJ and I am a currently one of their patient’s. I have instructed patients for over 5 years on the proper technique of ambulating with the use of crutches. I am now filling the shoes of my patient’s.

I have suffered from an injury that has me using crutches for quite some time now. I fractured my heel while I was hiking. Immediately when I fractured my heel I was unable to weight bear because of the excruciating pain. I have been using crutches for 2 weeks and I have great sympathy for the individuals that I treat and others who have had the privilege to use crutches. Crutches will put a damper on your activities and tasks. Now that I have had the experience with crutches I have created some helpful tips for my patients or any individual who may need to ambulate with crutches in the future.

#1.) Ask yourself ….Do you have the coordination to use crutches? If not, get a knee walker. (See below)

#2.) Make sure your crutches are properly fitted for you. (See below)

#3.) Go SLOW. Think before you step. You cannot rush with crutches.

#4.) Wear a tool belt or fanny pack. This will come in handy when you need to carry things. My favorite one is a fitness fanny pack with an attached water bottle.

#5.) Prepare your clothes the day before. This will save time and energy when you are getting ready in the morning.

#6.) Set up everything you need on one level so you are not trekking up and down the stairs more than once a day.

#7.) The safest and easiest way to ascend and descend steps is on your butt!

#8.) Take rest breaks. Crutches are not made for long distances. But if you must, make sure there are chairs or benches where you intend to walk.

#9.) Crutches are not meant for leaning on them. Your underarms will thank you.

#10.) Do not use your crutches in a crowded area. A slight push or shove can easily knock you off balance.

I am planning on traveling and using crutches are tiring and not the best for sight seeing. I have researched other forms of medical equipment. I have found that a knee walker is the fastest form of transportation when you are planning to walk long distances. Insurance does not cover this device and most local surgical supply shops do carry knee walkers. You can rent them for approximately $30 a week. I had a difficult time finding a knee walker because all the knee walkers were on hold for other lucky individuals, so I purchased one online for $290.00. If I were to rent one for 8 weeks I would pay $240 so I justified $50 more to have my very own knee walker. This device is great! It is faster than being on two feet and you can travel distances in no time. I have taken my walker to the mall and shopping. The basket on the walker comes in handy when I need to shop. The walker folds up conveniently to place in your car. This is my recommendation when you need to go the distance, and you do not have access to a wheelchair.

Sizing your crutches:

Even if you have already been fitted for crutches, make sure your crutch pads and handgrips are set at the proper distance, as follows:

Crutch pad distance from armpits: The crutch pads should be 2 finger widths distance from your armpits. Make sure you are standing up straight and shoulders are relaxed.

Handgrip: Place it so your elbow is flexed 20 degrees, so you can fully extend your elbow when you take a step. Remember, your weight will be shifted into your wrists and palms (not your armpits) when you take a step. There is no need to wrap your crutch pads with towels because you do not lean on your crutch pads with your armpits.

Crutch length: The total crutch length should equal the distance from your armpit to 10 inches in front of a shoe.

By Valerie Gregory, CPT, CKTP