Types of Crutches

Underarm Crutches:
An underarm crutch, also known as an axillary crutch, is a mobility aid that assists people
with mobility issues in walking or moving around. It is intended to transfer the user's weight
from the legs to the upper body, specifically the underarms. Underarm crutches are made up
of two vertical posts with padded cuffs that fit beneath the user's armpits. A horizontal piece
connects the posts, which the user holds onto while walking. Rubber or plastic tips on the
bottom of the posts may provide traction and stability on the ground.

People with temporary injuries, such as a broken leg, as well as those with more permanent
mobility impairments, such as cerebral palsy or spinal cord injuries, frequently use underarm
crutches. People suffering from fatigue or weakness, such as multiple sclerosis or muscular
dystrophy, can also benefit from them.

Forearm Crutches:
A forearm crutch, also known as an elbow crutch, is a mobility aid that allows people with
limited mobility to walk or move around. In contrast to underarm crutches, which are
designed to support the user's weight under the armpits, forearm crutches are designed to
transfer weight to the arms and wrists. Forearm crutches are typically made up of a vertical
post with a padded cuff that wraps around the user's forearm and a horizontal handle that the
user grips while walking. For traction and stability on the ground, the bottom of the post may
have a rubber or plastic tip.

People with more permanent mobility impairments, such as cerebral palsy or muscular
dystrophy, often prefer forearm crutches over underarm crutches because they provide more
support and stability. People with temporary injuries, such as a broken leg or ankle, who can
bear weight on their arms and wrists, may also use them. Forearm crutches require more
upper body strength and coordination than underarm crutches, so they may not be appropriate
for everyone. To determine the best mobility aid for your specific needs, always consult with
a healthcare professional.

Gutter Crutches:
A gutter crutch, also known as a Canadian crutch or forearm platform crutch, is a type of
mobility aid that allows people with limited mobility to walk or move around. Gutter crutches
are similar to forearm crutches in design, but with an added forearm platform for added
support and stability. The platform is attached to the vertical post and is designed to fit
around the user's forearm, with the user's hand gripping the handlebar at the top of the post.

The gutter crutch's platform allows weight to be transferred from the user's legs to their
forearms and wrists, which is especially beneficial for those who have weak or painful hands
or wrists. They may also be recommended for people with more severe mobility impairments
who need more support and stability. As with all mobility aids, it is critical to consult with a
healthcare professional to determine the best type of crutch for your specific needs.

Hands-free Crutches:
Hands-free crutches are a type of mobility aid that allows people with limited mobility to
move around without using their hands or arms. Unlike traditional crutches, which require the
user to support their weight with their arms and hands, hands-free crutches provide support
and stability through a different mechanism. Hands-free crutches are typically made up of a
padded platform that wraps around the user's knee or upper leg and a support post that
extends down to the ground. The user can rest their injured or weakened leg on the platform,
while the support post provides stability and aids in weight distribution.

Hands-free crutches can be especially beneficial for people who have injuries or conditions
that make traditional crutches difficult or painful to use. They allow the user to move around
more easily and with less strain on their upper body, while still providing the necessary
support and stability to avoid falls or further injury. It's important to note that hands-free
crutches aren't for everyone, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to
determine the best type of mobility aid for your specific needs.