Crutches and Walking Frames

Mobility Aids

You have been issued with a crutch/crutches or a walking frame to help you move around after your burn injury. Please only use these as you have been shown and follow the instructions in this leaflet.

Crutches

Crutches are used for either Non Weight Bearing (where no weight is put through affected leg) or Partial Weight Bearing (where a small amount of weight is put through the affected leg)

Your Burns Therapist will instruct you which weight bearing type you should use and it is important you follow these instructions for your optimal recovery.

Safe use of crutches

• Always remove crutches from your arms before sitting down or standing up.
• Hold onto a rail where possible when going up or down stairs.
• Lead with your non affected leg when going up stairs, lead with your affected foot when going down stairs.
• Limit your amount of mobility to necessary trips only and be aware you will be slower than normal.

Walking sticks

If you are provided with a walking stick it will be measured and cut to the correct height for you. If the ferrule (the rubber stopper on the end which is put on the floor) gets worn down, please speak to your therapist.

Walking frames

Walking frames are usually used to assist with balance when walking if this has been affected by a burn injury. Occasionally it is necessary to be Non Weight Bearing (where no weight is put through affected leg) or Partial Weight Bearing (where a small amount of weight is put through affected leg) when using a walking frame.

Your Burns Therapist will instruct you on how to use your frame, it is important you follow these instructions carefully.

Safe use of walking frames

• Walking frames are for indoor use only.
• Do not pull on your frame to stand up. Stand first using arm rests to assist you then use your frame for balance.
• Limit your amount of mobility to necessary trips only and be aware you will be slower than normal.

All mobility aids are issued in good order. Please notify us if your aid needs replacement ferrules (the rubber stoppers on the bottom which are put on the floor)

If you are not sure how you should be using your walking aid please ask your Burns Therapist or contact the Burns Therapy Team (0203 315 5680)

All mobility aids (crutches and walking frames) remain the property of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

Please return them to the Burns Therapy Team when they are no longer required.

Please contact your therapist if you have any concerns or questions.

Contact information

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital

NHS Foundation Trust