How To Use One Crutch (Step By Step Guide)
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If you’re recovering from a leg injury and are prescribed to use one crutch, you might be feeling quite limited. For most people, walking with one crutch is ‘easier’ than walking on two crutches. It can feel strange at first if you haven’t used a single-leg device before.
Some people are afraid of using it, and they need to overcome their fear by realizing they can go out more often if they use a crutch. This article will show you how to walk with one crutch.
How To Use A Single Crutch
There are many types of single-leg devices, so it’s best to try things you are comfortable with. Here are a few ways how to use one crutch:
Fitting Crutch
At first, you need to fit the crutch to your injured leg. Slip it over your foot until your toes touch the floor comfortably.
It’s easier to balance if you use something for support, especially if this is the first time you use a crutch.
Standing From A Sit
You can use the same crutch to help you stand up from a sitting position. The process is the same, except you will be standing. The crutch should be at the side of the injured leg.
The arm holding the crutch should be bent and locked to your side. If you are using a folding device, flip it up after you stand up, but before you move your leg forward or walk.
Walking
There are two different ways to walk with one crutch. One is to drag it on the ground, and the other is to walk with it firmly. To drag it on the floor, grip the crutch using your thumb, index finger, and middle finger.
Adjust your hand position until you can hold it comfortably on your injured leg. Then, you can use your arms to push yourself off the ground.
Hold the crutch like you are walking with a cane to walk with it. Make sure that it’s tight enough for you to stay balanced.
If something is loose, this will affect your walking speed and ability to balance. However, even if it’s a little loose, it will help you in your first steps.
Up And Down Stairs With One Crutch
It’s best to start by standing on a stair. Use the crutch like you’re walking with something other than a crutch, or you might slip and fall down the stairs.
When climbing, place your injured foot on the step, then push off with your other leg. Do the same for descending the stairs.
Up And Down Stairs Without A Crutch
Use the other foot:
- Move your injured leg up the step, use your other foot to push off from the ground, and put that leg on top of the step.
- Repeat this until you reach the top or bottom of the stairs.
- Repeat with your injured leg.
You can also use the railing. Just do the same by placing your foot on the stair, then push off with your other leg to climb or descend the stairs.
Is It OK To Use One Crutch? (Advantages)
Using one crutch is OK as long as you are recovering from a leg injury. Here are some advantages of using one crutch:
You can go out more often if you do not have to use two crutches. People should use one crutch to recover from a leg injury.
You will be able to do simple activities like taking a shower or eating, which most likely would have been impossible with two crutches. You will be getting your life back.
It’s easy to use so you won’t have difficulty going out with your friends and family. Your body will get used to it over time, so you won’t have trouble walking with it.
It is also safe to use, meaning you won’t get hurt. However, if you are too protective of your leg, it will be hard to adapt yourself to the crutch.
You do not risk injuring your knee when using one crutch since you will be using only one leg. You can also use your injured leg more often than usual (since it will not cause much pain in this case).
The weight of one crutch is much lighter than two crutches, making it easier to swing around. Also, since there’s less weight on one leg, it will not cause fatigue as much. Therefore, you’ll be able to stay active longer than usual.
The Disadvantages Of Using One Crutch
When using a single-leg device, it will be challenging to get around in town. It will be much more tiring if you carry groceries or even want to go out for a stroll.
You will also have problems walking around small objects placed on the ground, like a table or an object with wheels.
If your foot gets caught between the crutch and the floor, this can cause an injury. Your leg can also get caught between the crutch and the object in front of you. The same happens when you step on something weird on the floor with your crutch.
It’s best to wear shoes while walking with a crutch and to avoid wearing high heels or sandals. Plus, it will be impossible to carry anything in your hands.
Top Cases For Using One Crutch
When and why should you use one crutch instead of two? Here are some instances when you’ll be more comfortable using one crutch:
1.Your injured leg is a little sore: If your injured leg is in relatively good shape but still has some pain, then using one crutch will be much better than using two crutches.
You will be able to move around easily, and you won’t need to run the risk of injuring your other leg if you accidentally step on their crutch or something on the ground.
2.You have a heart condition: If your heart is weak, using one crutch is better than using two. This is because there will be less weight on your body, which means you won’t feel tired when walking. It will also be easier to walk around with just one crutch.
3.You have broken a bone in both legs: If you have sustained an injury and broken a bone in both legs, then it would be best to use only one crutch.
This is because moving around will be much easier, and you won’t need to use two crutches. You can do simple activities such as going to the bathroom, eating or showering.
4.You have a broken leg: If you broke your leg, it would be best to use a single-leg device instead of two crutches. It will not only be easier for you to move around, but you’ll also feel less pain.
What Are The Alternatives To Using One Crutch?
1. Canes And Walking Sticks
You can use a walking stick or cane instead of using crutches. However, this will take a bit more time to get used to.
Plus, this alternative can be challenging if you have a bad balance and a lot of pain because of the injury.
2. Knee Scooters
When using knee scooters, you’ll be able to go around with much more freedom. However, it will take much longer to get used to it since this device is a little trickier than a crutch. Plus, they are more expensive than crutches, and you risk getting hurt if you fall.
Final Word
Using one crutch won’t be that hard. Just follow this article, and you’ll be able to use one crutch as soon as tomorrow. Don’t worry about feeling awkward because it takes time for your body to adjust to using a single-leg device.