In this video Cindy demonstrates how to adust crutches. Crutches can eliminate all or some weight off of one leg or may also give added support to an injury or condition of both legs.
Have the client stand up straight with one arm handing down at their side
The top of the crutches should be 1-2 inches or 2-3 fingers width below the armpit
The hand grips should be at the client's wrist level
Adjust one crutch then match the other crutch to the same adjustment
The hand grip height should allow for a slight bend at the elbows, about 20-30 degrees
Things to remember:
Don't lean or hand on the top of the crutches through the armpit area
Bear weight on the hands, not on the armpits, which is a common practice
The tops of the crutches should be held snugly against your sides
Dry off crutch tips when wet
Check for small pieces of gravel that may become lodged in the crutch tips to prevent slipping on the floor, especially after using crutches outside