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Using Stairs with Cane or Crutches
Updated 10/18/2011 |
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Stairs and Crutches
Stairs:
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Use one crutch and the
stair rail if present (only
if the railing is stable and
there is someone to carry
the other crutch). Use two
crutches if there is no
stair rail.
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It does not matter which
side the stair rail is on.
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If both crutches can be
held in one hand safely, you
can use both crutches on one
side and the railing on the
other.
Up stairs:
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Walk close to the first
stair and hold onto the
stair rail.
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Hold onto the rail with
one hand and the crutch with
the other hand.
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Push down on the stair
rail and the crutch and step
up with the "good" leg.
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If not allowed to place
weight on the "bad" leg, hop
up with the "good" leg.
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Bring the "bad" leg and
the crutches up beside the
"good" leg.
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Remember, the "good" leg
goes up first and the
crutches move with the "bad"
leg.
Down stairs:
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Walk to the edge of the
stairs in the same way.
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Place the "bad" leg and
the crutches down on the
step below; support weight
by leaning on the crutches
and the stair rail.
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Bring the "good" leg
down.
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Remember the "bad" leg
goes down first and the
crutches move with the "bad"
leg.
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Use the same rules when
going up and down curbs or
doorsteps.
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