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Forearm Crutches

Designed to improve stability and balance, forearm crutches, also referred to as elbow or Canadian crutches, appear shorter than the walking variety, which sits in the user’s armpit. Instead, a cuff goes around the forearm, elbow or wrist to better support individuals with upper arm strength who require a long- or short-term mobility solution.

Built for both comfort and convenience, forearm crutches feature a smaller size and lighter build, making them more portable for those able to use them. Individuals requiring a long-term mobility solution may be steered toward this model. Those undergoing physical therapy or short-term rehab may additionally prefer this elbow-height pair over walking crutches.

Vitality Medical carries multiple types of forearm crutches. For example, the In-Motion Crutch has a unique angled form for improved mobility.

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What Are Forearm Crutches?

In general, crutches accommodate individuals with temporary or long-term mobility issues, helping improve their stability and balance as they move about their home, their workplace and the world. The design helps lessen the pressure placed on a leg recovering from surgery or an injury, and shift weight from the legs to the upper body in the process.

Among all the types available, forearm crutches are built with a cuff that slips around the user’s arm, elbow or wrist and a handle they grip. While doctors and physical therapists increasingly recommend this model for injury recovery and rehabilitation, forearm crutches have typically been a long-term mobility aid for improving balance and allowing for use of the upper body.

This approach varies from the similarly named forearm support crutches. Also called platform or gutter crutches, this solution adds padding around the forearm and an adjustable handle for more support, lessening the amount of stress placed on the upper body. This system tends to benefit patients living with arthritis or other conditions contributing to chronic pain.

The Benefits of Forearm Crutches

Whether for short- or long-term mobility, elbow crutches:

  • Have a lightweight, easily portable and often compact design, making them ideal for travel.
  • Place less force on the legs compared to other types of crutches.
  • Evenly distribute weight among the upper body.
  • Are an affordable mobility solution.
  • Provide a more comfortable experience compared to walking crutches.
  • Are built to be used on uneven surfaces.
  • Hold up to long-term wear.
  • Are suited to individuals with balance, stiffness, spastic or other walking issues or who experience weakness in the legs.

 

However, understand that forearm crutches aren’t built for all patients. This solution isn’t ideal for:

  • Those without the upper body strength to use the system.
  • Individuals who need assistance using stairs.
  • Carrying objects while using your crutches.
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