If ordered by the doctor, your child will be fitted for crutches and be taught how to use them by a trained health care professional.
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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 taken up.
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Never hop around holding on to furniture; it may slide or fall.
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Keep the crutches near you so they are always in reach.
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Wear low-heeled shoes that will not slip off (for example, sneakers).
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For the first few days, a strong belt may be worn to allow someone to assist you.
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Be careful of ramps or slopes, as it is a little harder to walk.
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If falling, throw the crutches out to the side and use your arms to break your fall. To get up, get into a sitting position. Back up to a stool or low chair. Put your hands backwards on to the chair. Bend the "good" leg up. Pull with your hands and push with the "good" leg to get up onto the chair.
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If not allowed to take weight on the "bad" leg, hop up with the "good" leg.
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Do not remove any parts from your crutches, including the rubber tips.