Using crutches can feel tricky if they are different from the right height for you. Whether healing from an injury or dealing with a long-term issue, it's essential to correctly adjust the crutches to your height. It helps you feel comfy and move safely.
Explore eight easy steps to get your crutches to the right height. With these changes, you'll feel better and be able to move around more easily.
Let's get started and make your crutches fit you perfectly so you can focus on feeling better!
When Do You Need Crutches?
You might need crutches if you have trouble walking without putting too much weight on one of your legs. It could happen if you've injured your leg, foot, or ankle or had surgery.
Crutches help take the weight off the injured leg, which gives it time to heal. They're also helpful if you have a condition that makes walking hard, like a muscle or bone problem.
If your doctor has recommended you forearm crutches, follow these steps to handle them with ease:
1- Stand Upright
Take a straight position with your shoes on and your feet shoulder-width apart.
Standing comfortably and naturally means your weight is equally distributed over both feet.
This initial posture enables you to start from a stable position.
2- Position Crutches
Place your crutches about a foot (or around 15 centimeters) in front of you and slightly to the side. They shouldn't be directly in front of your feet but a bit forward and to the side.
This positioning allows you to step forward comfortably without tripping over the crutches and provides stability when you lean on them.
3- Adjust Hand Grips
Locate the hand grips on the crutches. You must loosen the adjustment mechanism, such as a wing nut or a push button, usually found below the hand grips.
Loosening this mechanism allows you to move the hand grips to the right height.
4- Measure Hand Grip Height
Bend your elbows as if holding onto something securely while keeping your arms at your side. After that, measure the distance from the ground to your wrists with a tape measure or eyeballing.
This measurement gives you an idea of how high the hand grips should be.
5- Adjust Hand Grip Height
Now, move the hand grips up or down until they're at the same level as the measurement you just took. You may need to do some experiments to determine the most suitable height.
Make sure both crutches are adjusted to the same height so that you have balanced support.
6- Tighten Hand Grip Adjustment
Once you have the hand grips at the right height, it's time to secure them.
Tighten the adjustment mechanism firmly to prevent the hand grips from slipping during use. It ensures that the crutches remain stable and supportive while you walk.
7- Check Elbow Bend
After adjusting the hand grips, checking your elbow bend is essential. With your hands on the grips, ensure your elbows are slightly bent, about 15-30 degrees. This position allows for stability and control while using the crutches.
If your elbows are too straight or too bent, it can lead to discomfort or difficulty maneuvering the crutches. Adjust the hand grip height to achieve the proper elbow bend.
8- Test Walk with Crutches
Once crutches adjust to the correct height and your elbows are slightly bent, it's time to test walk.
Start by taking small steps, putting weight on the hand grips as you move forward. Pay attention to how the crutches feel and how stable you feel while walking.
Make necessary adjustments to the height or positioning of the crutches to ensure they provide the support and comfort you need. As you get more accustomed to using the crutches, gradually increase your speed and distance.
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With our wide selection of crutches available online, you can find the perfect fit from the comfort of your home.
People Also Ask!
What is the correct height for crutches?
The correct height for crutches is when the top of the crutch is about 1 to 1.5 inches below your armpit, and the handgrips are at wrist level when you stand upright.
How do you adjust hospital crutches?
Loosen the adjustment wing nuts or push-button mechanisms, then extend or retract the crutch tubes until they reach the desired height. Tighten the wing nuts or push the buttons back in place to secure them.
How do you move on crutches?
Place them about a foot in front of you, then lean forward slightly and move both crutches and your injured leg together.