Banter Student Leaders Guide Student Staff App. Your crutches have been fitted so the top of the crutch is approximately two inches below your armpit. The hand rests should be positioned so that your elbows are slightly bent and your weight can be supported on your hands and wrists. Never rest your weight on your underarms. This can damage nerves.
Balance is basic to walking properly with crutches.
To maintain your balance, keep your body in good alignment with your head held high, shoulders back and stomach and buttocks in. Using crutches takes practice. Some situations that require extra care are getting into and out of a chair, using stairs and walking through doorways. Here are some guidelines for using crutches in these situations. Getting into a Chair Get as close to the chair as possible and turn so that your back is facing the chair.