How to Walk on Steps With Crutches

Walking with crutches is an adjustment that takes time and practice. One of the most difficult tasks to do with crutches can be walking up and down stairs. For someone who is not experienced with using crutches, stairs can present a hazardous situation. Before attempting to go up or down stairs, adjust your crutches to the appropriate height and practice walking with them in order to get comfortable. Once you're ready to maneuver safely up and down stairs on crutches, be sure to take your time and lead with the appropriate foot.

Instructions

Going Up Stairs With Crutches

• 1

  Face the stairs. Do not try to go up the stairs backward. Stand close to the first step.

• 2

  Place one hand on the railing and put both crutches under the opposite armpit. If there is no railing, keep the crutches under both arms.

• 3

  Place your body weight on your crutches and use the railing for extra stability. Step onto the first step with your uninjured leg, raising your injured leg behind you. If there is no railing, put all your weight on your crutches and step up with your healthy leg.

• 4

  Bring your injured leg and crutches onto the same step as your healthy leg.

• 5

  Repeat this process for subsequent stairs until you have reached the top of the staircase.

Going Down Stairs with Crutches

• 6

  Face the stairs. Do not try to go down the stairs backward. Stand close to the first step. Position your crutches as you did in Section 1.

• 7

  Step down onto the first step with the crutches, hovering the injured leg in front of you and placing your body weight on the crutches.

• 8

  Follow with the healthy leg while leaning on the railing or crutches for support.

• 9

  Repeat this process for subsequent stairs until you have reached the base of the staircase.