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Welcome to our health education 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: Up and Down StepsC³mo usar las muletas para subir y bajar escaleras

Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps

Tip: Ask a friend to carry one of your crutches while you climb or descend stairs.

When climbing up and down steps, remember this rule: Up with the good (unaffected leg) and down with the bad (affected leg). Note: If you're supposed to keep all weight off your leg (non-weight-bearing), ask your healthcare provider for special instructions.

Image of woman on crutches

Up Stairs

Hold the handrail with one hand.
Put both crutches in your other hand.
Support your weight evenly between the handrail and your crutches.
Put some weight on the crutches.
Step up with your unaffected foot.
Get your balance.
Straighten your unaffected knee and lift your body weight.
Bring your crutches and affected leg up.

Image of woman on crutches

Down Stairs

Hold the handrail with one hand.
Put both crutches in your other hand.
Bend your unaffected knee, moving your crutches and affected leg down.
Support your weight evenly between the handrail and your crutches.
Slowly bring your unaffected leg down.
Don't hop.

Precautions for Using Stairs

Always use an elevator if one is available.
Have someone guard you as you learn to use stairs. A guard stands below you. He or she holds your belt (or a special "gait belt" you can borrow or buy) to assist you if you lose your balance.
When there is no handrail, keep one crutch under each arm. Follow the instructions above.
If the stairs are slippery or steep, it may be safer to lift or lower yourself from step to step while sitting. Hold both your crutches in one hand as you do so.

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!

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Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps

Up Stairs

Down Stairs

Precautions for Using Stairs

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