While most people are not thrilled about the prospect of having to use crutches for walking, it is just part of the healing process if you have a lower body injury or undergo surgery. If you are not able to put weight on one of your legs you must learn to get around. Learning how to use crutches is not overly complicated but you must still use proper form so you don't slip and re-injure yourself.
Walking
Step 1
Stand in place with the tops of the crutches under your armpits. A proper measurement has them 1 to 1 1/2 inches below your armpits. Ensure that the handgrips are about even with the top of your hips and your elbows are slightly bent while holding the grips.
Step 2
Lean forward slightly and place the crutches on the ground about 1 foot in front of you. Step forward with your bad leg, allowing the crutches to hold the weight.
Step 3
Swing your body through on the crutches and place your healthy leg on the ground. Move the crutches ahead again when your good leg is planted on the ground and continue.
Sitting
Step 1
Back into your chair with your bad leg slightly in front of your body.
Step 2
Hold both crutches in one hand and reach back to feel the chair. Slowly sit down into the chair.
Step 3
Move to the edge of the seat when you want to stand up. Hold the crutches in your hand on the side of your good leg and push yourself up and out of the chair.
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