Learning to use elbow crutches (also called forearm crutches) properly is essential for a safe and efficient recovery. Whether you're recovering from surgery, a fracture, or a soft tissue injury, this comprehensive guide will help you master proper crutch technique, avoid common mistakes, and optimize your healing process.

Understanding Elbow Crutches and Weight Bearing Status

Elbow crutches are designed to help you maintain mobility while protecting an injured leg. Unlike underarm crutches, they support your weight through your arms and wrists rather than your armpits, reducing the risk of nerve damage and allowing better maneuverability.

The single most important concept to understand is that crutches exist to absorb the force that your injured leg cannot currently tolerate. How you use your crutches depends entirely on your weight-bearing status, which your healthcare provider will determine based on your specific injury.

Weight Bearing Classifications

Proper Crutch Fitting and Adjustment

Correctly fitted crutches are essential for safety, comfort, and maintaining proper posture during your recovery. Ill-fitting crutches can cause secondary issues in your back, shoulders, and neck.

Walking Techniques Based on Weight Bearing Status

The walking pattern you use will depend on how much weight your healthcare provider has cleared you to put on your injured leg.

Non-Weight Bearing Gait

When you cannot put any weight on your injured leg:

• Move both crutches forward together about a step's length
• Push down on the handgrips and swing your body forward
• Land your good leg either even with or slightly past the crutches
• Keep your injured leg elevated throughout the movement

Partial Weight Bearing Gait

When you're allowed to place some weight on your injured leg:

• Move both crutches and your injured leg forward simultaneously
• Place the permitted amount of weight through your injured leg
• Step through with your good leg, which can go level with or past the crutches

Weight Bearing As Tolerated Gait

As you recover and can bear more weight:

• Use a more natural walking pattern while still using crutches for support
• Focus on walking without a limp, using the crutches to facilitate normal movement
• Gradually increase weight on the injured leg as comfort allows

Sitting and Standing with Crutches

Proper technique for sitting and standing prevents falls and protects your injury.

How to Sit Down Safely

1. Back up until you feel the chair against the back of your legs
2. Remove your arms from the cuffs and hold both crutches by the handgrips in one hand
3. Reach back with your free hand to grasp the chair arm or seat
4. Lower yourself slowly into the chair, keeping your injured leg slightly forward

How to Stand Up Safely

1. Scoot forward to the edge of the chair
2. Place your strong foot slightly back and your injured leg slightly forward
3. Hold both crutches by the handgrips in the hand on your injured side
4. Push up using the chair arm and your strong leg
5. Once standing balanced, place the crutches under your arms

Navigating Stairs Safely with Elbow Crutches

Stairs can be challenging with crutches. Always use a handrail when available, and don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.

Going Up Stairs

With a handrail:

• Hold the handrail with one hand and both crutches (or just one) in the other hand
• Step up with your good leg first
• Bring your injured leg and crutches up to the same step
• Repeat for each step

Without a handrail:

• Place both crutches on the step you're standing on
• Step up with your good leg
• Bring the crutches and your injured leg up together

Going Down Stairs

With a handrail:

• Hold the handrail with one hand and crutches in the other
• Lower the crutches and your injured leg to the step below
• Step down with your good leg
• Repeat for each step

Without a handrail:

• Lower both crutches to the step below
• Step down with your injured leg, maintaining appropriate weight bearing
• Follow with your good leg

Transitioning to a Single Crutch

As you continue to recover, you may transition from two crutches to one. Proper placement is crucial for maintaining balance and proper biomechanics.

Correct Single Crutch Placement

Contrary to what many people assume, a single crutch or cane should be used on the opposite side of your injured leg. This provides better stability and allows for a more normal walking pattern.

When the crutch is on the side opposite your injury:

• It creates a wider base of support
• It helps maintain an upright posture
• It balances forces at the hip, reducing strain on your joints
• It prevents the "penguin walk" where you shift your weight excessively to one side

Walking with One Crutch

• Hold the crutch in the hand opposite your injured leg
• Move the crutch and your injured leg forward together
• Step through with your good leg
• Maintain as normal a walking pattern as possible

Essential Safety Tips for Crutch Users

Following these safety guidelines will help prevent accidents and support your recovery:

Home Environment Safety

• Remove trip hazards: Clear clutter, secure loose rugs, and keep electric cords out of walkways
• Ensure good lighting: Make sure all areas are well-lit, especially hallways and stairs
• Create clear paths: Rearrange furniture to create wide pathways for movement
• Use non-slip surfaces: Place non-slip mats in bathrooms and kitchens

Crutch Maintenance

• Check rubber tips regularly: Replace worn, smooth, or split ferrules immediately
• Inspect for damage: Look for bends, loose handles, or other signs of wear
• Verify adjustment mechanisms: Ensure all buttons and clips are secure

Personal Safety

• Wear proper footwear: Choose flat, supportive shoes with non-slip soles
• Use a backpack: Carry items in a backpack to keep your hands free
• Be cautious on wet surfaces: Take small steps and avoid wet leaves, ice, or slippery floors
• Take your time: Move slowly and don't rush your movements