If you are using a stick or a crutch due to pain or weakness, perhaps for hip arthritis or you have recently sprained an ankle, you should hold it in the hand opposite to the painful leg. You should move the stick/crutch forwards first, followed by the painful leg and then the other leg. Make sure your stick or crutch is placed a small way out to the side, so not to be a trip hazard.

If you are using a stick for balance, then hold it in the hand it is most comfortable in.If you are going upstairs, you should step up with the good leg first, then follow with the painful leg and place it on the same step. Then move the stick on to the same step.

When going downstairs the stick is to be moved first on to the step below, then the painful leg and then the other leg.

The key is to make sure you always take your time.