How to Put on Pants, Socks & Shoes With Back Pain

How to Put On Your Pants, Shoes, and Socks with Back Pain

Keep your back straight. Don't round forward into a "C-position." If it hurts, you're doing it wrong.

Putting On Socks

Method 1: Use your hip mobility

• Bring your foot up to you by flexing at the hip

• Keep your back straight throughout

• Take your time

  
  

Method 2: Use a sock aid

• Place the sock over the aid device

• Sit in a stable position

• Pull the handles toward you

Putting On Shoes

Method 1: Cross-leg technique (if you have hip mobility)

• Sit upright

• Place your ankle on the opposite thigh

• Slip on your shoe with a straight back

  
  

Method 2: Elastic shoelaces

• Leave shoes tied permanently

• Just slip on and off

  
  

Method 3: Long-handled shoehorn

• Untie your shoe fully

• Use the shoehorn to guide your foot in

  
  

Method 4: Slip-on shoes or ZEBAs

• No laces needed

• Easy on and off

Putting On Pants

Method 1: One leg at a time (if you have hip mobility)

• Lay pants on bed or chair

• Flex one leg at a time

• Keep your back straight

  
  

Method 2: Cross-leg technique (seated)

• Sit upright

• Cross one ankle over opposite thigh

• Slip leg into pant leg

  
  

Method 3: Use a reacher/grabber

• Lay pants out flat

• Use reacher to position each leg

  
  

Bottom Line

One wrong bend can set back your recovery. These simple tools and techniques prevent pain and maintain your independence.

Consult your physical therapist to find the best method for your mobility level.