Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps

When climbing up and down steps, remember this rule: Up with the good (unaffected leg) and down with the bad (affected leg). Note: If you’re supposed to keep all weight off your leg (non-weight-bearing), ask your healthcare provider for special instructions.

Tip: Ask a friend to carry 1 of your crutches while you go up or down stairs.

Take care when using stairs

• Always use an elevator if available.

• Have someone guard you as you learn to use stairs. A guard stands below you. They hold your belt (or a special “gait belt” you can borrow or buy) to help you if you lose your balance.

• When there is no handrail, keep 1 crutch under each arm. Follow the instructions above.

• If the stairs are slippery or steep, it may be safer to lift or lower yourself from step to step while sitting. Hold both your crutches in 1 hand as you do so.

Up stairs

• Hold the handrail with 1 hand.

• If a friend is not available to carry 1 of the crutches, put both crutches in your other hand.

• Support your weight evenly between the handrail and your crutches.

• Put some weight on the crutches.

• Step up with your unaffected foot.

• Get your balance.

• Straighten your unaffected knee and lift your body weight.

• Bring your crutches and affected leg up.

  

Down stairs

• Hold the handrail with 1 hand.

• If a friend is not available to carry 1 of the crutches, put both crutches in your other hand.

• Bend your unaffected knee, moving your crutches and affected leg down.

• Support your weight evenly between the handrail and your crutches.

• Slowly bring your unaffected leg down.

• Don’t hop.