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Welcome to our health library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Using Crutches: Weight-BearingComo usar las muletas apoyando el peso

Using Crutches: Weight-Bearing

Use a weight-bearing gait when you are told that you can put some weight on your leg as it heals. Depending on your arm strength and balance, you can either "step to" or "step through."

Balanced Standing (Tripod) Position

Use this position when you start or end a movement. or when you're standing for any length of time. Move your crutches in front of you about 12 inches. Find your balance. Don't rest your armpits on the pads.

Image of girl on crutches Weight-Bearing: Step To

  • Start in a balanced standing (tripod) position.

  • Step forward with your affected foot.

  • Land lightly between your crutches.

  • Squeeze the pads against the sides of your chest.

  • Support your weight with your hands and your affected leg.

  • Press down on the handgrips.

  • Lift your unaffected foot and step to the crutches.

  • Land on your unaffected foot, between your crutches. Keep the knee slightly bent.

  • Reach forward and out with the crutches to begin the next step.

Image of girl on crutches Weight-Bearing: Step Through

  • Start in a balanced standing (tripod) position.

  • Step forward with your affected foot.

  • Land lightly between your crutches.

  • Squeeze the pads against the sides of your chest.

  • Support your weight with your hands and your affected leg.

  • Press down on the handgrips.

  • Lift the unaffected foot and step forward through the crutches.

  • Land on the unaffected footslightly in front of the toe of the other foot. Keep the knee slightly bent.

  • Reach forward and out with the crutches to begin the next step.

You may be told to use one of the gaits listed below.

  • Toe-touch or touch-down gait:Lightly touch your affected foot to the floor, and let your crutches bear most of the weight. Imagine that you're stepping on a ripe tomato: Step lightly, so it won't be squashed.

  • Partial weight-bearing gait:Put some weight on your affected foot as you walk. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much.

  • Full weight-bearing gait: Put most of your weight on your affected foot. Place only a little weight on your crutches.

Date Last Reviewed: 2007-01-15T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2005-04-04T00:00:00-06:00

For more information, call Dr. Walker at 972.392.3330 or use our Online Appointment Request Form today!