WALKING AIDS CRUTCHES, CANE

Walking aids serve various purposes, such as providing support, reducing weight on an injury, improving balance, or aiding mobility. Choosing the right walking aid is crucial, ensuring it meets specific needs and is properly adjusted for optimal support. When using a walking aid, individuals should be able to walk naturally and comfortably without pain.

Cane: A cane can reduce weight load on a foot or leg by 25%. It is suitable for those transitioning to walking again, aiding balance, or as a preventive measure for the elderly outdoors. Different types of canes, including foldable, adjustable, single-point, and multi-point, cater to diverse needs. Selection should align with individual preferences and requirements.

Adjustment:

  1. Stand with feet slightly apart, avoiding high heels.
  2. Place the cane about 15 cm from the foot on the side opposite the injury or alongside the weakest leg.
  3. Arms should naturally fall to the sides, standing straight.
  4. Adjust the cane height so the handle aligns with the wrist fold.
  5. Walk by moving the cane simultaneously with the opposite, weaker leg. Keep the cane vertical to prevent slipping.

Going up stairs with a cane:

  1. Stand close to the first step.
  2. Lift the stronger leg onto the first step.
  3. Bend forward, moving the weaker leg and the cane onto the first step.

Coming down stairs with a cane:

  1. Take the first step down with the cane and the weaker leg.
  2. Lower the strong leg to the same step.
  3. Stand straight without bending forward.

Crutches: Crutches bear a person’s entire weight, keeping it off an injured leg. Suitable for those with sufficient upper body strength, crutches are generally recommended for a maximum of eight weeks. Forearm crutches provide an alternative, especially for long-term use.

Adjustment:

  1. Stand with feet slightly apart, avoiding high heels.
  2. Place crutches about 15 cm from the feet.
  3. Let arms fall naturally to the sides, standing straight.
  4. Adjust crutch height within two finger-widths of the armpit.
  5. Ensure handles align with the wrist fold.
  6. For forearm crutches, set hand grips at wrist fold height and ensure comfortable cuffs.

Stability is crucial, forming a triangle between crutches and the uninjured foot while walking or standing. Crutches should never be in line with the body but slightly in front or behind the uninjured foot. Avoid resting underarms on crutches; weight should be transferred through arms onto hand grips.

Going up stairs with crutches:

  1. Place the uninjured leg on the first step.
  2. Bring crutches and injured leg onto the same step.

Going down stairs with crutches:

  1. Place crutches on the first step.
  2. Bring the injured leg followed by the uninjured leg down on the same step.