crutches will be prescribed to you if you have injured your ankles, legs, knees, thighs, or hips. This device relieves the injured limb from bearing a certain portion of weight and also helps achieve stability. Compared to canes, they offer greater amount of stability and joint relief.

What to Consider

You can source your crutches from hospital supply, disability stores, and mobility stores. You can also order from online stores and have it delivered right at your doorstep. The price range may vary from £20 to £100.

Prior to shopping for crutches online, ask the advice of your GP or PT first so you can get the most appropriate assistive device for you. Make sure that you are getting crutches that fit you right or at least get the adjustable ones.

You will know that axillary crutches are of the right fit if you place them in front of you, with the tips at 6 inches 2 o’ clock from your small toes, and you still have slight bending of your wrists and elbows.

The crutches can be made of wood or metal but you have to go for something that is light enough for you. Check for the cushions on the grip bar and axillary bar. For other types of crutches, make sure that there is enough soft lining in the arm cuffs. The tip of the crutches should also have large suction tips that can absorb the impact.

When you are using crutches and you suddenly observe a tingling sensation radiating from your arm or wrist, or weakness of your arms, call your GP or PT immediately so you can be advised on how to avoid impinging nerves. It will also be helpful if you learn to stretch and relax the shoulder and arm muscles which will do most of the workload.

Worn out tips should also be replaced as soon as possible because the crutches may slip and you may sustain more injuries.