A crutch is a mobility aid that transfers weight from the legs to the upper body. It is often used by people who cannot use their legs to support their weight, for reasons ranging from short-term injuries to lifelong disabilities. If you break a bone in your leg or foot, have a procedure on your knee or lower leg, or suffer a stroke, your doctor may recommend that you use a walking aid while you are healing or recovering. Using crutches, a cane, or a walker can help keep your weight off your injured or weak leg, assist with balance, and enable you to perform your daily activities more safely.

While some people prefer using a cane to get around, others have good results with crutches. Though it can sometimes be awkward to use, especially for first time users, learning how to properly manoeuvre crutches can make it easier to use them in different situations.

How to use:

1. Non-weight bearing (If you’re unable to put weight on the injured leg)

• Place one crutch under each arm and grip the crutch handles.
• Stand on your uninjured leg, with your injured leg slightly bent and raised off the floor.
• Advance the crutches about a foot in front of you.
• Move your injured leg forward.
• Supporting your weight with your hands, step forward normally with your uninjured leg. Once your uninjured leg is on the floor, advance your crutch to take the next step.

2. Weight Bearing (If you are able to put some weight on your injured leg)

• Place one crutch under each arm and grip the crutch handles.
• Stand in between the crutches with both feet on the floor.
• Advance both crutches about one foot in front of you. Step forward with the injured leg, placing your foot lightly on the floor.
• Step normally with the uninjured leg, and then advance the crutches forward to take the next step.

Types of Crutches

1. Underarm crutches

Underarm crutches are also called axilla crutches and are the most common type of crutch. These crutches are placed in your underarm for use and can be adjusted for height. They are typically used for people who will only need them for 1-3 months. It uses less upper body strength are easy to use and balance but can sometimes lead to discomfort and fatigue.

Underarm crutches, Available on https://www.sunshinenw.com/product/underarm-crutch-light-weight-aluminium-height-adjustable-1-pair/

2. Forearm Crutches

Forearm crutches are also called elbow crutches. These crutches have a cuff that goes around your forearm and handles for your hand to grip. Forearm crutches are most often used by people who need long-term crutches as they are more comfortable and can be used for longer periods of time without feeling fatigue. Once people are used to the forearm crutch, they are easier to navigate and balance as compared to the traditional underarm crutch.

Forearm Crutches, available on https://www.sunshinenw.com/product/light-weight-forearm-elbow-crutch-height-adjustable/

3. Forearm Support Crutches

Forearm support crutches are also called adjustable arthritic crutches, platform crutches, or gutter crutches. They have padded forearms and adjustable handles that can help people who need more support from their crutches, adding comfort and protection to the user. Forearm support crutches are used for people who need additional support, such as people with arthritis or other chronic pain conditions. They can relieve some pressure on the body and help people with these pain conditions remain mobile.

Summary

The right crutches for you will also depend on individual factors. For example, not everyone who needs short-term crutches will use underarm crutches. Your doctor or physical therapist might recommend forearm crutches for you instead. You might also transition from one crutch type to another during your recovery. The right kind for you will be dependent on what you need the crutches for, what your physical therapist or doctors recommend you, your upper body strength as well as convenience for mobility.

If you require further advice on the type and suitability of crutches and wish to purchase one, we are happy to provide our assistance and professional knowledge here at Sunshine Nursing & Wellness LLP.