Crutches Essay

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Crutch Use, Adult

Crutches are used to take weight off one of your legs or feet when you stand or walk. You may need crutches to help heal after an injury or procedure. It is important to use crutches that fit properly. When fitted properly:
• Each crutch should be 2–3 finger widths below the armpit.
• Your weight should be supported by your hand, and not by resting the armpit on the crutch.
It is important that a health care provider has seen you use crutches effectively before you use them at home.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Improper use of crutches can injure your shoulders, arms, back, armpits, and hands To prevent this from happening, make sure your crutches fit properly and do not put pressure on your armpits when using them. …show more content…

To prevent falls while using crutches at home or work:
• Move furniture or barriers to your walk way when possible.
• Keep walkways well-lit.
• Use a backpack so you do not need to carry items in your hands.
• Remove rugs, cords, and other items from the floor that you can trip on.

HOW TO USE YOUR CRUTCHES
How you will use your crutches will depend on the reason you need them. Your health care provider may tell you not to put any weight on the affected leg (non-weight bearing). Or, your health care provider may allow you to put some, but not all, weight on the affected leg (partial weight bearing). Follow your health care provider’s instructor’s instructions about weight bearing. Do not bear weight in an amount that causes pain to affected area.
Walking
1 Stand on your healthy leg and lift both crutches at the same time.
2 Place the crutches one step’s length in front of yourself.
3 Bring the healthy leg forward to meet, or land slightly ahead of, the crutches.
4 Repeat.
Going up

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