It’s very common for patients at our office to need help walking after a foot and ankle injury or while recovering from foot and ankle surgery. Made of wood or aluminum and provided by a foot doctor like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos, crutches are a stabilizing tool that help you move around when you are not able to bear your body weight on your foot, ankle, or lower leg. Your podiatrist will go over the basics of walking with crutches, but they can be hard to master.
Here is some information to help you manage your crutches:
- For proper fit, your crutch length should be about the distance from an inch or two below your armpit to about six inches in front of your shoe and you should be able to hold the crutches with your elbows bent.
- To walk with your crutches, shift your weight to your uninjured leg, then move the crutches to a steady spot in front of you. Shift the weight from your uninjured leg to your arms, then swing the injured leg forward. Plant the uninjured leg. Make sure you feel secure, and shift your weight back to the leg. Move the crutches forward and begin again.
- During your time on crutches, avoid stairs. Use the elevator when possible. If you must use stairs, enlist a friend or family member as a “spotter.” Going upstairs, step up with the uninjured leg first, then bring the crutches up. To go down, place the crutches on the next step below, then step down with the unhurt leg first.
If you’re hurt, or if you’re recovering from surgery, be sure to follow your podiatrist’s instructions. Take all medication, rest, and apply ice as directed.
Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist and an expert in all injuries and illnesses of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Visit our modern, comfortable Chicago office to keep these parts of your body feeling great. Call our friendly staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment today.