After Knee Replacement: Walking With Crutches
DISCHARGE AND AFTERCARE

After Knee Replacement: Walking With Crutches

January 17, 2020

After Knee Replacement: Walking with Crutches

Once your balance improves, you may begin using crutches or a cane instead of a walker. Crutches and canes can help you walk with an even stride. Follow all instructions given to you by your physical therapist.

Woman walking with two crutches.

Using crutches

  • With crutches in place, lean on your hands. The top of the crutch should be just below, not in, the armpit.

  • Move your operated leg and crutches forward at the same time. Keep the operated leg lined up with the crutches.

  • Look straight ahead, and step through the crutches with your good leg.

Walking up stairs

  • Hold the rail with one hand and both crutches in the other. Support your weight evenly between the rail and the crutches.

  • With the crutches and operated leg on the lower step, step up with your un-operated leg.

  • Keeping a grip on the rail, bring your operated leg and crutches up to the same step.

Walking down stairs

Woman walking down stairs with crutch.

  • Hold the rail with one hand and both crutches in the other.

  • With your weight on your good leg, step down with your operated leg and crutches.

  • Using the crutches and rail for balance, slowly bring your good leg down to the same step.

Updated:  

January 17, 2020

Reviewed By:  

Bellendir, Trina, MSPT, CLT,Joseph, Thomas,N., MD