Forced to use crutches after a leg injury? Know that in addition to the injury itself, you'll be dealing with the discomfort of constantly leaning on that new pedestal. However, by adding extra cushioning and using crutches appropriately to reduce discomfort, you can make the healing process much more enjoyable.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Adding Pads
Step 1. Use a rolled up towel or blanket as a cushion
One of the oldest, easiest, and most effective ways to make a pair of crutches feel more comfortable is to make your own pads from a few pieces of leftover fabric. There's no “right” type of fabric to make-you can use towels, old blankets, or even small pillows. Below is an example of how to make a cushion for a pair of crutches:
- Cut out 2 old 1x1m blankets.
- Form the two pieces of cloth into a loose roll that is slightly wider than the top of the crutches.
- Use strong tape (such as packing tape or black tape) to secure each roll to the top of the crutches. Secure the blanket in position-if the roll slips as you move, it can affect your posture and cause ongoing discomfort.
Step 2. If applicable, place the pad under your current crutches lining
Many crutches are available with removable foam padding on top, which is intended to fit your underarms. Another way to add cushioning to an uncomfortable pair of crutches is to remove the upholstery, fill it with cushioning material, and put it back in. This can be difficult or impossible with some types of crutches, so be careful not to damage them by forcibly removing or attaching the liner.
This way, you can use rolls of cloth or other materials such as cotton, old duvets, etc. to equip crutches with pads
Step 3. Purchase a pair of commercial crutches for added comfort
It's no secret in medical circles that crutches can be uncomfortable when used. Therefore, there is a small niche market for cushioning equipment that can be used to make crutches more comfortable. These pads are usually made of foam, gel, or absorbent fabric material and are available at reasonable prices- a complete set is usually worth around IDR 400,000,-.
Standard crutch accessories can be purchased at the pharmacy, but for a better product selection you should search the internet for access to a wide variety of materials, sizes, padding patterns, etc. By shopping on the internet, you can even buy crutches pads, for example, made of faux fur
Step 4. If necessary, also cover the grip area with padding
The armpit is not the only part of the body that can be painful when using crutches. Since most of the weight of the body rests on the palms of the hands, it is very common for this part of the body to start to feel sore during use of crutches. Fortunately, lining the grip area can reduce some of the discomfort it causes.
- You can use homemade pads (towels or glued-on fabric scraps) or commercial for that matter. However, the latter option is probably the better choice as it is very important to get a firm grip on the crutches to avoid falling. Many commercial crutch pads feature ergonomic materials and a shape designed to give you a firmer grip on the crutches.
- Covering the grip area with padding is even more important than using it on the armpits, as more body weight is placed on the hands.
Part 2 of 2: Using Crutches Comfortably
Step 1. Adjust the height of the crutches properly
Even crutches that have been padded with padding can be painful to use if the height is not appropriate. Fortunately, almost all modern crutches have an easy-to-retract section that allows you to adjust the height. The exact height of the crutches depends on your height and the type of crutches you are using. For example:
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Underarm crutches:
Wear shoes that are usually used everyday and stand up straight. Tuck the crutches under your armpits and position the ends a few inches in front of your feet. Adjust the crutches until they are about 2.5 to 5 cm below the armpit. Friends can help with this step. Crutches should not protrude into the armpit.
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Arm crutches:
Wear shoes that are used everyday and stand up straight. Tuck the crutches into your arms and grasp the handles. Flex your elbows so that the inside of your wrist is in line with the base of your pelvis at a 30° angle. Adjust the crutches so that they touch the floor in this position. The armrest should support the largest part of the forearm and the grip on the crutches should be in line with the wrist.
Step 2. Make sure you hold the crutches properly
Pain in your wrist or arm may be a sign that you are using crutches in a way that puts unnecessary stress on that part of your body. Using the right grip can minimize pain. When using armpit or arm crutches:
You should keep your elbows slightly bent when using crutches. The forearm should be in a straight position, from the elbow to the wrist. Do not arch your wrists when using crutches
Step 3. Pay attention to your gait
Having an irregular gait when walking normally can be a sign of another underlying issue and can result in constant and prolonged pain. This condition is made worse by using crutches, which do change your gait. Maintaining proper posture during walking is crucial for your comfort. While there are slight differences in proper gait, depending on the type of crutches used, the same rules apply to almost all types of crutches. For example:
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Underarm crutches:
Grip the crutches firmly. Stand on the uninjured leg and position the crutches 1 step in front. Lean forward while using crutches to swing it forward. Land with your uninjured foot about a step ahead of the crutches touching the ground. Swing crutches forward and repeat. Always keep the injured leg off the ground.
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Forearm crutches:
Grip the crutches firmly. Stand on the uninjured leg and position the crutches 1 step in front. Lean forward, stack your weight on crutches, then swing your body forward. Use your forearms to maintain balance and control during the swing. Land with your uninjured foot about a step in front of the crutches touching the ground. As with underarm crutches, always keep the injured leg off the ground.
Step 4. Let the body "follow" each step
You'll need to get used to walking with a pair of crutches before you can do it without putting unnecessary stress on your joints. When you hit the ground, land on the uninjured foot, trying to keep the joints (especially the elbow and knee on the uninjured leg) "flexible" without changing your posture. Allowing the joints to bend slightly with each step can reduce pressure and prevent discomfort.
You no want to experience a stiff or locked joint when the foot hits the ground. This can increase the physical impact that the joint feels with each step and will cause pain quickly.
Step 5. Step very carefully when going up the stairs
It's no secret that certain daily tasks become especially difficult when using crutches. Knowing the proper way to use crutches while performing these tasks not only makes you feel more comfortable - it can also reduce the risk of injury. For example, climbing stairs can be scary while using crutches so follow these formulas to help you remember how to complete the task:
- Step by formula SCK while climbing the stairs. First of all, step that foot Swell, then lift the affected leg Injury, and swing Kyour row.
- Use formula KCS to go down the stairs. First swing Kyour ruk, lift the affected leg Injury, then step the foot that Swell.
Tips
- Keep in mind that you may need to readjust the height of the crutches after attaching them to the pads.
- If you take your shoes off, don't forget to adjust the height of the crutches to compensate. Even those small changes can make a big difference to your comfort.
- Consider buying a fitted backpack if you're on crutches. Trying hard to carry an ill-fitting bag or backpack when using crutches can easily lead to muscle soreness (and accidents). You may even want to purchase a pocket accessory for crutches to help carry things without changing your gait.
