If ordered by the healthcare provider, your child will be fitted for crutches and
be taught how to use them by a healthcare provider. Below are some helpful tips to
get your child started.
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Take care on slick or wet surfaces (for example, the kitchen and bathroom).
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Be careful of throw rugs. They should be removed.
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Never hop around holding on to furniture. It may slide or fall.
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Keep the crutches near so they are always in reach.
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Wear low-heeled shoes that won't slip off (such as sneakers).
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For the first few days, a strong belt may be worn to let someone help them.
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Be careful of ramps or slopes, as it is a little harder to walk.
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If falling, they should throw the crutches out to the side and use their arms to break
their fall. To get up, they can get into a sitting position. Then back up to a stool
or low chair. Put their hands backwards on to the chair. Bend the "good" leg up. Pull
with their hands and push with the "good" leg to get up onto the chair.
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If they aren't allowed to put weight on the "bad" leg, hop up with the "good" leg.
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Don't remove any parts from the crutches, including the rubber tips.