How to Use Crutches When Pregnant: A Practical Guide

Pregnancy changes everything, from how you sleep to how you move. But when pain, instability, or injury affects your mobility, even the simple act of walking can become overwhelming. For many pregnant women, crutches become more than just a support. They become a lifeline to independence.

Whether you’re managing Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP), recovering from a minor injury, or experiencing severe fatigue in the later stages, using crutches correctly during pregnancy can reduce strain, support your joints, and keep you safely on the move.

This practical guide, written by the mobility experts at Medpoint, aims to help you use crutches confidently and comfortably throughout your pregnancy.

Helpful Resources: HSE Ireland

When and Why You Might Need Crutches During Pregnancy

Not every pregnancy requires mobility support, but for some women, it makes all the difference.

Common reasons you might need crutches:

• Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP): A common condition that causes pain in the pelvic joints. Crutches help redistribute weight and reduce pressure on the pelvis.
• Joint instability: As hormones like relaxin loosen your ligaments, your hips, knees, and ankles can feel unstable.
• Lower body injuries: A sprained ankle or a minor fall during pregnancy can require short-term support.
• Sciatica or back pain: Crutches can help take pressure off inflamed nerves or compressed vertebrae.
• Fatigue or dizziness: In later trimesters, even standing too long can lead to faintness or unsteadiness.

Many of our customers say they felt guilty or frustrated about needing crutches—but they quickly realised it wasn’t a setback. It was a tool to help them keep going, safely.

Choosing the Right Crutches

The right pair of crutches makes all the difference to your comfort and balance.

Forearm vs. Underarm Crutches

• Forearm crutches (also called elbow crutches) are generally recommended during pregnancy. They offer better control, don’t dig into the underarms, and allow more upright posture.
• Underarm crutches may feel supportive at first, but they often cause shoulder tension and poor posture over time.

How to Fit Your Crutches

Proper fit helps you avoid strain or falls. Here’s how to check:

• Height: When standing straight, the crutch handles should align with your wrists.
• Elbow angle: When you hold the handles, your elbow should bend slightly, about 15 to 30 degrees.
• Tip position: The rubber tips should rest about 7 to 10 cm outside your feet, forming a natural triangle for balance.

A poorly fitted crutch can lead to pressure points, poor alignment, or even falls. If you’re unsure, visit a local expert. As a mobility shop in Ireland, Medpoint can help you find and fit the right crutches for your needs.

See if a knee walker could be a better option than crutches.

How to Use Crutches Safely During Pregnancy

Standing and Sitting Down

• To stand: Move the crutches to one hand, place your free hand on the arm of a chair or bed, and push up using your legs.
• To sit: Back up until your legs touch the seat, place both crutches in one hand, and lower yourself gently with support.

Walking

• Keep your crutches about 10 cm in front of you and slightly to the side for stability.
• Move both crutches forward at the same time.
• Step forward with your weaker or more painful leg, letting your arms take the weight.
• Bring your stronger leg through.

Tip: Maintain a slightly wider stance than usual to accommodate your changing centre of gravity.

Turning

• Avoid sharp twists. Instead, pivot slowly with small steps.
• Keep your body aligned—turning at the hips can strain your pelvis.

Stairs

If you must use stairs:

• Going up: Step up with your stronger leg first, then bring your crutches and weaker leg up.
• Going down: Place your crutches on the step below, step down with the weaker leg first, then the stronger leg.

Use handrails when available and take your time. If stairs feel risky, consider a temporary walking frame for getting around safely.

Learn more about walking frames here.

Tips for Daily Life with Crutches During Pregnancy

Crutches can free you to move, but daily tasks still take some creativity.

Going to the Bathroom

• Keep doorways clear and floors dry.
• Use a non-slip bath mat and stable grab bars for safety.
• If your balance is compromised, consider a walking stick or lightweight rollators for walking support as an alternative.

If you consider a rollator, check our rollator buyer’s guide for 2025.

Carrying Things

You’ll need your hands for balance. Try:

• A small backpack
• A crossbody bag with essential items
• A waist pouch for things like keys or your phone
• Asking for help—especially on stairs or outdoors

Sleeping and Getting in/out of Bed

• Sit down first, then use your arms to pivot your legs up onto the bed.
• Place pillows behind your back and between your knees for support.

Energy Management

• Use your energy wisely. Shorten your work hours, take breaks, and avoid unnecessary trips.
• Supportive, non-slip shoes make a big difference in balance and fatigue.
• Avoid wet floors, tight spaces, and long-distance walking without help.

When Crutches Aren’t Enough: Other Mobility Options

Crutches are great—but not for everyone.

Consider alternatives if:

• You have wrist or hand pain
• You’re exhausted from using them
• You have poor coordination or balance

Better-suited options might include:

• A knee walker or ankle or foot injuries
• A stable walking frame if you need more balance than crutches offer
• A wheelchair or electric wheelchair for longer distances or severe pain

Our staff at Medpoint can help you compare different mobility aids based on your condition, home layout, and preferences.

Don’t Do It Alone: Get Professional Support

Every pregnancy is different. Some women manage well with light aids, while others need more structured support.

If you’re unsure how to move safely or your symptoms worsen, speak with:

• A women’s health physiotherapist
• Your GP or obstetrician
• Mobility specialists like our team at Medpoint

We work with customers across Ireland to find pain-free, practical solutions that adapt to your stage of pregnancy and your home life.

Supporting Your Mental and Emotional Health

Needing mobility support during pregnancy can feel discouraging. But you’re not weak, you’re being smart about your body’s needs.

• Ask for help without guilt.
• Rest without apology.
• Adapt instead of resisting.

If you’re struggling emotionally with limited movement, talk to a therapist, midwife, or your partner. Small tools like crutches can give you more independence and peace of mind, not less.

Summary and Takeaways

Crutches are a valuable support for pregnant women dealing with PGP, injuries, or pain. With the right technique, proper fit, and realistic expectations, they can help you stay mobile and safe during a physically demanding time.

If crutches feel uncomfortable, don’t force it. There are many alternative mobility aids available. Your safety comes first.

And remember: it’s not about pushing through pain. It’s about giving your body the support it needs to carry you and your baby safely forward.

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