When you need a little extra help getting where you need to go, it can be confusing to determine exactly what type of walking aid is right for you.  This is part two in a series of guides that will help explain the differences in the many products in this category, and will give you the tools you need to pick exactly what you need.  This guide will focus on crutches.  Be sure to check our other guides for our walking cane guide, as well upcoming guides about walkers and rollators, and a separate series on wheelchairs and scooters.

The Basics

There are four categories of basic walk aids available:

• Canes
• Crutches
• Walkers
• Rollators

Whether you are selecting a walking aid for short term use because of an injury, or you have a more permanent need for mobility assistance, you should consider the type and amount of support you need when making your decision.  Read on for more information about the second option - crutches.

Crutches

Crutches are often used by people with an injured leg, ankle or foot, or by people with disabilities who need long-term help with mobility.  Most people use two crutches, but some with more minor injuries use only one.  There are several crutch styles available, including wooden crutches, aluminum crutches, folding crutches and forearm crutches.

Wooden and Aluminum Crutches

These are the most basic types of crutches on the market.  Other than the fact that aluminum crutches are more lightweight, there isn't much difference in the two.  Wooden crutches used to be the standard, but they are increasingly rare, due to the popularity of aluminum ones.  Important things to consider are the comfort of the underarm cushion and the length of the crutch.  Crutches are available in different sizes.  You want to get a crutch that measures two inches less than the distance from your underarm to the floor.  The handgrip should be positioned so that your elbow is slightly bent, and your weight can be supported by your hand and wrist.  Crutches also have maximum weight limits, so make sure the crutch you select will support you properly.  Please see below for important information about getting around on crutches.

Folding Crutches

A new crutch that has recently been introduced to the market is the adjustable folding crutch.  These crutches have many options and upgrades that make them far superior to basic wooden or aluminum styles.  They feature ergonomically designed underarm pads and hand grips, and a shock-absorber tip that makes them much easier on your joints.  They are also height adjustable, so it's easy to find the perfect fit.  The folding capability makes them much easier to transport and store, especially in public places like restaurants, theaters, etc. 

Forearm Crutches

Forearm crutches are designed for people who have a permanent disability or whose disability allows them to be more active.  They are used by sliding your arm through a cuff and gripping the handgrips.  They tend to be easier for everyday use, especially when it comes to climbing stairs.  As with regular crutches, they come in different sizes and weight capacities, so select a pair that is right for your build.  Other things to look for are the ability to adjust the height, as well as the distance from the cuff to the handgrip.  Aluminum forearm crutches are the most durable, and will stand up better to daily use.

The Right Way to Use Your Crutches

Using crutches takes practice, but, with a little time, you'll be walking with them easily and safely.  Balance is the key, and you should always try to maintain the most upright posture possible.  Keep your head held high, and your shoulders and back straight.  It's very important that you never rest your weight on your underarms, as this can cause nerve damage.  Below are some tips for using your crutches in special situations:

Getting into a Chair

Get as close to the chair as you can, and turn so that your back is to the chair.  Hold both the crutches in the hand on the uninjured side of your body.  Then, slide your injured leg forward, while holding onto the arm or the back of the chair.  Be sure to use your crutches for support, as well, and gently lower yourself into a seated position.

Standing from a Chair

First, slide to the edge of the chair, keeping your injured leg flat on the floor.  Hold both crutches in the hand on the injured side of your body, and lean forward.  Hold onto the arm or back of the chair with the hand on the uninjured side of your body for support.  Push yourself up with your uninjured foot and leg, then  move one crutch to your other hand.  If possible, keep your injured leg off the floor by flexing your knee.

Using Stairs

To walk up stairs, first put both crutches in the hand on your uninjured side.  Then, hold onto the banister with your other hand.  Using your uninjured foot first, step up onto the stair.  Pushing down on the crutches and banister at the same time to support your weight, lift your injured leg onto the stair.   Repeat these steps up the remaining stairs.

To walk down stairs, make sure you approach the top of the flight of stairs very carefully.  Again, you'll hold the crutches in the hand on your uninjured side, and hold onto the banister with your other hand.  Lower your crutches to the first step, push down on the crutches and banister for support and hop to the next stair.  You can also carefully step down with your injured leg first, then your uninjured leg.  Repeat these steps until you're at the bottom.

Walking Through Doorways

To walk through a doorway that opens toward you, stand to the side of the door, and open the door with the hand on your uninjured side, while supporting your injured side on the crutch.  When going through self-closing doors, get help if you can, as your crutch can get caught.  To walk through a doorway that opens away from you, stand in front of the door, and open it with the hand on your uninjured side.  Hold the door open with your crutch as you walk through.

Summary

Your doctor will likely be the one who decides crutches are the best walking aid for you.  The information above will help you choose the style that is right for you, and learn to use your new crutches safely and with confidence.

Shop our eBay store!

 Copyright 01/20/2006, Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.  All rights reserved.  The contents of this work shall not be used, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.