How to Use One Crutch (Single-Crutch Walking)

A single crutch is for when you can put some weight on the injured leg but still need support, often the last step before walking unaided, or a lighter alternative to a cane. The technique is simple, but the most common question has an answer that surprises people.

Which side? The opposite side

Hold the crutch on the side opposite your injured leg.

It feels backward, but it’s correct. Holding it opposite lets the crutch and your injured leg move together and share the load the way you’d naturally walk, the crutch reaches forward as the bad leg steps, taking weight off it. Holding it on the same side crowds your stride and gives less support.

(One exception: for pure balance rather than weight relief, some people prefer the same side. If a physical therapist told you otherwise for your situation, follow them.)

The walking pattern

Move the crutch and your injured leg forward together.
Take weight through the crutch grip (push down through your hand).
Step your good leg through, past the crutch.
Repeat in a smooth rhythm, keeping steps even.

Push through your hand on the grip, not your armpit. If your hand gets sore, see crutches that don’t hurt your hands.

Stairs with one crutch

Use the handrail with your free hand, it’s more support than the crutch.

Going up: good leg up first, then bring the injured leg and crutch up to meet it.
Going down: crutch and injured leg down first, then the good leg.

Remember it as “up with the good, down with the bad.” Full detail in how to use crutches on stairs.

When one crutch isn’t enough

If you’re still non-weight-bearing or it feels unstable, you likely need two, see how to use crutches and non-weight-bearing on crutches. One crutch is for partial-weight-bearing and the tail end of recovery.

Choosing a single crutch

For longer-term single-crutch use, an ergonomic forearm crutch is easier on the hand and wrist than a standard underarm one. See our best forearm crutches picks, or take the quiz.

This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your physical therapist whether you’re ready for a single crutch and which side is right for your injury.