Elite Physical Therapy

Phone: (315) 737-7300
elitept@juno.com

Welcome to the comprehensive medical library of Elite Physical Therapy. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation or medical advice given to you by a physician or other medical professional.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding any condition or treatment, please contact us. To schedule an appointment, please call 315-737-7300 or use our online Request an Appointment form.

Using Crutches: Weight-BearingComo usar las muletas apoyando el peso

Using Crutches: Weight-Bearing

Use a weight-bearing gait when you are told that you can put some weight on your leg as it heals. Depending on your arm strength and balance, you can either "step to" or "step through." 

Balanced Standing (Tripod) Position

Use this position when you start or end a movement. or when you're standing for any length of time. Move your crutches in front of you about 12 inches. Find your balance. Don't rest your armpits on the pads.

Image of girl on crutches Weight-Bearing: Step To

  • Start in a balanced standing (tripod) position.

  • Step forward with your affected foot.

  • Land lightly between your crutches.

  • Squeeze the pads against the sides of your chest.

  • Support your weight with your hands and your affected leg.

  • Press down on the handgrips.

  • Lift your unaffected foot and step to the crutches.

  • Land on your unaffected foot, between your crutches. Keep the knee slightly bent.

  • Reach forward and out with the crutches to begin the next step.

Image of girl on crutches  Weight-Bearing: Step Through

  • Start in a balanced standing (tripod) position.

  • Step forward with your affected foot.

  • Land lightly between your crutches.

  • Squeeze the pads against the sides of your chest.

  • Support your weight with your hands and your affected leg.

  • Press down on the handgrips.

  • Lift the unaffected foot and step forward through the crutches.

  • Land on the unaffected foot slightly in front of the toe of the other foot. Keep the knee slightly bent.

  • Reach forward and out with the crutches to begin the next step.

You may be told to use one of the gaits listed below.

  • Toe-touch or touch-down gait: Lightly touch your affected foot to the floor, and let your crutches bear most of the weight. Imagine that you're stepping on a ripe tomato: Step lightly, so it won't be squashed.

  • Partial weight-bearing gait: Put some weight on your affected foot as you walk. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much.

  • Full weight-bearing gait: Put most of your weight on your affected foot. Place only a little weight on your crutches.

Date Last Reviewed: 2007-01-15T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2005-04-04T00:00:00-06:00