Adjust the crutches to fit your height
Place the crutches under your arms, not on your armpits
Keep your elbows slightly bent
Hold both crutches on the side opposite your injured leg if instructed for stairs or balance
Move both crutches forward together
Shift your weight onto the crutches
Step forward with your injured leg if allowed
Step through with your uninjured leg
Keep your head up and look forward
Take small, steady steps
Avoid putting full weight on the injured leg unless told to do so
Use hand grips to support your weight
Do not lean on the armpit pads
Wear non-slip shoes
Keep floors clear of obstacles
Move slowly on wet or uneven surfaces
Use handrails on stairs when available
Go up stairs with the uninjured leg first
Bring the crutches and injured leg up together after the uninjured leg
Go down stairs with the crutches and injured leg first
Bring the uninjured leg down last
Ask for help if you feel unsteady