STAIRWAY: Cane on Stairs

In this video a caregiver will learn how to instruct an individual on how to use a cane on the stairs. Apply a gait belt for safety.

Place the cane in the opposite hand of the rail or other hand hold **If there is no rail or other hand hold, the cane goes on the opposite side of the weak/injured leg.  

Always lead up with the good/strong leg first and down with the weak leg first.

Instructions for going up the stairs

  1. Leave the cane down on the floor or step you are leaving with the weak/injured leg (some individuals prefer to place the cane on the step they are going up to prior to stepping up with the good leg)
  2. Put weight through your hand on the rail and on the cane in order to support the weak/injured leg
  3. Step up with the good leg, followed by the cane and the weak/injured leg

Instructions for going down the stairs

Place the cane in the opposite hand of the rail, or other hand hold **If there is not a rail or other hand hold, the cane will go on the  opposite side of the weak/injured leg

  1. Place the cane down on the step below you
  2. Put weight through your hand on the rail and on the cane in order to support the weak/injured leg
  3. Step down with the weak/injured leg, then step down with the good leg

 

 

 

https://aecorner.video/video/HELPdurham/stairway-cane1