A big part of this is leading with the correct foot.
Which one you should choose depends on the direction you are moving and the foot that is affected.
This may take some thinking at first, but should become automatic with time.
Francesco Ruggeri / Getty Images
Using Assistive Devices
Having a banister or handrail makes navigating the stairs all the easier.
Among the primary concerns is to avoid slips and falls.
You should also check the height of a step if approaching the stairs for the first time.
The same applies to the depth of the step.
you’re able to’t modify steps, of course.
And rememberif help is available, use it when you need it.
If you overwork the leg muscles, you may end up being more, rather than less, wobbly.
Gripper socks can even help if you have a synthetic runner as the carpet fibers can sometimes be slick.
Finally, if you’ve undergone surgery, check with your orthopedic surgeon before embarking on any exercise plan.
As eager as you may be to heal quickly, more is not always better.
As a rule of thumb, you should never walk alongside them or act as a human crutch.
Doing so not only crowds them in but makes it difficult to intervene if they stumble or fall.
If your loved one is walking up the stairs, stay behind them by one or two steps.
Rest one hand on the back of the pelvis for support.
This way, if they fall backward, you’re in the right position to brace them.
If your loved one is walking down the stairs, stand one or two steps below them.
Arthritis Foundation.How to safely climb stairs.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
OrthoInfo.How to use crutches, canes, and walkers.
2019;2019:6051476. doi:10.1155/2019/6051476.
