What is the primary role of physical therapists in patient care with crutches?

• A. Prescribe medications for mobility issues.
• B. Provide instruction about crutch walking and safety.
• C. Perform surgical procedures to correct gait.
• D. Monitor cardiac status during mobility.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that physical therapists guide patients on using assistive devices safely and effectively. For crutches, the emphasis is on proper fit and technique to protect the body and prevent falls. A therapist will ensure the crutches are the right height, that the hand grips are comfortable, and that the patient maintains a stable, upright posture. They teach how to move with crutches—how to shift weight, advance the crutches and the involved leg in a coordinated pattern, and how to adjust for the patient’s weight-bearing status. They also cover safety in daily activities, such as going up and down stairs, rising from a chair, and navigating around obstacles, with attention to preventing skin irritation or nerve compression from the crutches.

Prescribing medications, performing surgeries to fix gait, or monitoring cardiac status during mobility aren’t within the physical therapist’s role, which is why those options aren’t selected. The therapist’s instruction on crutch walking and safety is what directly supports safe, functional mobility with this device.