Crutches

Crutches

A Crutch is an assistive device utilized to mitigate mobility impairments or injuries that hinder walking ability.
Various types of crutches include:

Forearm

Forearm crutches, also known as Lofstrand crutches, feature a cuff at the top designed to encircle the forearm. They have traditionally been the prevalent type in Europe, while in the United States and Canada, they were primarily used by individuals with permanent disabilities.

However, American orthopaedic surgeons are increasingly recommending forearm crutches for patients with shorter-term needs. To use forearm crutches, the arm is inserted into the cuff, and the grip is held. The cuff, typically crafted from plastic or metal, may have a half-circle or full-circle design with a V-shaped opening in the front to allow the forearm to slip out in the event of a fall.

Underarm

Underarm crutches are commonly used in Malaysia by individuals with temporary disabilities or injuries. These crutches involve placing pads against the ribcage beneath the armpits and gripping the handle, which is situated below and parallel to the pad. They are sometimes referred to as axillary crutches.

Strutters

A variation of underarm crutches, strutters incorporate large soles that remain flat on the floor or ground while the user walks. They promote an improved walking gait and distribute body weight to reduce the risk of nerve damage associated with underarm crutches.

Platform

Less prevalent, platform crutches are employed by individuals with poor hand grip due to conditions such as arthritis or cerebral palsy. The arm rests on a horizontal platform and is secured in place. The hand rests on a grip that can be angled accordingly based on the user's disability.

Leg Support

These unconventional crutches are beneficial for users with an injury or disability affecting one lower leg only. They involve strapping the affected leg into a support frame that elevates the lower leg from the ground while transferring the load to the user's knee or thigh. This design allows walking without utilizing the hands or arms and helps prevent upper thigh atrophy because the affected leg remains in use.

Walking sticks or canes serve a similar purpose to crutches but are handheld and have limited load-bearing capability.

Users can adopt various gait patterns depending on the reason for using crutches. For instance, individuals with a non-weight-bearing injury often utilize a "swing-to" gait, lifting the affected leg and placing both crutches in front before swinging the uninjured leg forward.

With underarm crutches, using a towel or soft cover may be necessary to prevent or minimize underarm injury. Pressure on nerves in the armpit, or axilla, can lead to a condition known as crutch paralysis or crutch palsy, which can damage the brachial plexus and nerves like the radial and ulnar nerves.

For individuals unable to use or preferring not to use crutches, alternatives such as knee scooters or wheelchairs are available, although they may present limitations, especially when navigating stairs.