When to Use Crutches, Canes, or Walkers

Article featured on Reid Health

Whether you need temporary or permanent assistance, the right walking aid will help you recover from injury or maintain independent mobility. Not sure which one you need? Read below to learn more.

Crutches

Crutches are a useful tool when you need to keep weight completely off a lower extremity like the foot, ankle, knee, or hip after surgery or while recovering from an injury like a broken bone. Balance, some upper arm strength, and two hands are required to walk safely with crutches. If you’re not sure whether you need crutches or a partial weight-bearing walking aid like a cane or walker, seek medical advice.

Fitting crutches correctly

For any walking aid, the proper fit reduces the risk of falls or additional pain. To get the right fit:

• Stand up straight with shoes on.
• Placing the crutches under your arms allows your arms to relax and hang naturally.
• Aim for a gap of up to two inches between your armpit and the top of the crutch.
• The handgrips should reach the crease of your wrist, allowing for a slight bend in the elbow.

Walking with crutches

After fitting your crutches, grasp the handgrips and move both crutches forward at the same time. Place your weight on the handgrips as you swing your “good” leg forward, landing in between the crutches. A shorter stride may improve your balance, so avoid extending the crutches farther than you can comfortably reach.

Sitting, standing, and stairs

When climbing up steps, use both crutches and grab the handrail for extra support if needed. However, when walking downstairs on crutches, it’s safer to lean on one crutch and the handrail while someone holds the other crutch and walks beside you. Give yourself plenty of time, move slowly and carefully, and avoid crowds on stairs if possible.

When sitting or standing, hold both crutches in one hand and place your other hand on a chair to maintain balance. Don’t be afraid to ask someone for help if you need it!

Don’t need crutches? Try a cane or walker

If your injury allows for partial weight-bearing movement, canes or walkers provide an excellent alternative to crutches. They will prevent needing to lean entirely on your upper body for support.

How do I walk with a cane correctly?

A cane that is too high can interfere with balance and increase your risk of falling, while a cane that is too low may cause you to stoop and hurt your back. Standing up straight with your arm hanging naturally, the handgrip on your cane should meet the crease in your wrist. Your arm should have a slight bend which improves stability as you walk.

Stepping out safely

Once your cane is adjusted, follow these steps to start walking comfortably:

• Hold the cane with the hand on the opposite side of the injured body part.
• Step forward with your weak leg, moving the cane forward at the same time.
• Set the cane down parallel to your foot on the injured side.
• Bear partial weight on the injured leg and place your remaining weight on the cane as you step forward with your “good” leg.
• Should I use a cane for pain relief in my hip?

A cane can be a great tool to use for hip pain by taking some pressure off the affected hip. There’s no difference in walking when using a cane for hip pain, just ensure a good fit for your height and move slowly until your body adjusts to the new walking aid.

When should I use a walker?

If your injury allows for partial weight-bearing movement but you need extra support to maintain your balance, a walker is another great option. A walker is the most supportive walking aid but can be bulky and can’t be used on stairs. A variety of walkers is available, including folding, walkers with seats, and with wheels. A lightweight walker with four rubber “feet” is a good option if stability and balance are serious concerns.

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