During sitting with crutches, which statement best describes crutch placement relative to the affected leg?

• A. Stand beside the chair and lower onto it without crutches.
• B. Crutches should be held in the hand opposite the affected leg.
• C. Lower into the chair while keeping crutches in front of you.
• D. Place crutches on the chair arm before sitting.

Answer: (B)

When transferring to or from a seated position with crutches, the goal is to maintain balance and keep the injured leg safe. Holding the crutches in the hand opposite the affected leg achieves that. If the left leg is injured, for example, you grip the crutches with your right hand. This setup keeps the crutches away from the injured leg and allows your intact leg to bear weight and help you lower into or rise from the chair while you stabilize yourself with the chair.

Keeping the crutches on the opposite side also helps you control the descent or ascent without the crutches getting in the way or risking a trip. In contrast, lowering without crutches, keeping them in front, or placing them on the chair arm can increase the chance of losing balance or having the crutch tip slip, which is less safe.