Crutches after surgery do not determine the amount of weight-bearing allowed. This instruction comes from the surgeon or rehabilitation professional and depends on the specific procedure performed. Before walking, have it confirmed whether the limb can touch the ground, bear some weight, or be put on a normal load. If the instruction is unclear, contact the team rather than interpreting it yourself.
The adjustment, the handle, the cuff, and the condition of the tips all affect safety. A pair ordered online should still be checked and tried on. This guide helps prepare for the selection process but does not replace training with a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, or other trained professional.
Crutches after surgery: start with the weight-bearing instructions
The terms "no weight-bearing," "partial weight-bearing," or "weight-bearing as tolerated" describe different situations. Pain alone is not enough to determine which is best: an area with little pain may still require protection, while the presence of pain does not necessarily mean that all weight-bearing is prohibited. Use the terms written on the discharge summary and ask for a demonstration.
The technique may vary depending on the procedure, balance, arm strength, the use of a brace, or other limitations. The home recovery guide for surgery can help organize the living space, but it does not replace this individualized instruction.
English canes or axillary crutches?
English crutches with support on the forearm
Very common in France, these devices combine a handle and a cuff around the forearm. Their use requires a secure grip, wrists and shoulders capable of contributing to the support, and sufficient coordination. Some models allow for separate adjustment of the handle height and the cuff position.
Axillary crutches
They are placed under the arms, but the weight should be distributed through the hands, as instructed, and not resting on the armpits. Improper use can compress nerve structures or irritate the skin. Do not purchase this style simply because you prefer it, especially if your team has trained you using crutches.
How do I adjust the height?
The professional observes the standing posture, relaxed shoulders, wrist position, and natural elbow flexion. They then check the adjustment while walking, turning, and during a sit-to-stand transfer. A handle that is too high can cause the shoulder to shrug; one that is too low can lead to a hunched posture and an uncomfortable load on the hands.
Both canes must be adjusted consistently, and the locking buttons must fully extend. Do not drill into the tube, add a makeshift shim, or block any mechanism with tape. If the height seems incorrect after changing shoes or a brace, have it checked.
Handle, cuff and weight: useful criteria
- Handle : It must allow for a stable grip without any hard spots or slippage.
- Headline: It supports the forearm without pinching or hindering the arm's withdrawal during transfers.
- Settings: The markings must be legible and the locks fully engaged.
- Tip: Its diameter must match the tube and its base must be neither smooth nor split.
- Weight and stated capacity: Check the model's instructions, without extrapolating from its appearance.
- Pair or unit: Many listings sell only one rod; check the contents carefully.
An ergonomic handle isn't automatically suitable for your hand. Carpal tunnel pain, arthritis, weakness, a bandage, or shoulder limitations may require a different model or aid. A walker used after surgery addresses different needs and should also be assessed.
Check the tips and the structure
Before each major use, check that the ferrules are present, properly fitted, clean, and unworn. Also check the tubes, screws, clips, and handles. A cane that is bent, cracked, loose, or whose adjustment mechanism is loose should be removed from service until it is replaced or inspected.
A replacement nozzle must be compatible with the tube model and diameter. An accessory marketed as non-slip does not make a wet, icy, or cluttered surface safe. Avoid moving mats, wipe down floors, and wear stable footwear during your recovery.
Getting up, sitting down, and turning without improvising
The transfer technique should be demonstrated using the actual chair. It's usually necessary to free one hand to push against a stable armrest and only place your arms in the armrests once you've regained your balance, but follow the sequence provided for your specific situation. Do not pull on lightweight furniture and do not sit down by dropping.
To turn, move forward in small changes of direction without pivoting abruptly on the operated limb. Keep your crutches at a distance that allows you to stay between their points of support. The home return checklist helps to clear routes and choose stable seating.
Stairs: Learn the sequence on the spot
A staircase requires a different technique depending on the permitted support, the presence of a handrail, and the ability to control the operated limb. Request a demonstration before discharge, ideally in a setup similar to your home. If the exercise is not successfully performed, arrange for a single-level living space or human assistance.
Do not carry objects in your hand on the stairs and do not attempt to wedge a cane under your arm. A suitable bag or assistance from another person may be necessary. Dizziness, weakness, or new pain requires stopping before the stairs and seeking advice.
Compare the characteristics after model validation
First, confirm the type and settings, then check the height range, the cuff, the tip diameter, the stated capacity, whether it's sold individually or in pairs, the instructions, and the return policy. Catalogs may confuse walking sticks and crutches; a product description alone does not validate your support requirements.
When should I stop walking and contact the team?
- fall, impact on the operated area or new inability to get up;
- pain or swelling that increases significantly during walking;
- cold, pale, bluish feet, very numb feet or unusual weakness;
- dizziness, discomfort, shortness of breath or a sensation that the limb is giving way;
- bleeding wound, displaced dressing or damaged surgical device;
- unstable, bent, loose or missing tip.
Sit or lie down safely and contact emergency services. In case of chest pain, significant difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, confusion, sudden weakness on one side, or serious injury after a fall, call 15 or 112. Suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after surgery also requires prompt medical attention.
F.A.Q
Can you use a relative's crutches?
Only after a professional has checked their condition, capacity, and settings. A model fitted to another person may alter posture, and old tips may lose their grip.
Do I need one or two rods?
This choice depends on the permitted support, balance, and prescribed technique. Do not spontaneously switch from two canes to one simply because the pain decreases.
When can you stop using crutches?
There is no universal date. The decision to stop depends on the surgery, consolidation or healing, muscle control, and the quality of walking as assessed by the team.
Verified medical and institutional sources
- Hull University Teaching Hospitals: Use and adjustment of crutches
- Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust: Inspection and maintenance of crutches
- South Tees Hospitals NHS: Walking, transfers and stairs with crutches
- George Eliot Hospital: Safety with crutches and canes
- University Hospitals of North Midlands: Walking and positioning with crutches
- French National Authority for Health: Multifactorial fall prevention
Editorial note: General information article verified on July 17, 2026. It does not prescribe an amount of support, a model of crutches, or a date for stopping.
