In this video Cindy discusses Crutches: Underarm or Forearm We would love to hear from crutch users about your experiences/opinions. Please leave us a comment below!
Underarm or Axillary Crutches | [ Ссылка ] (affiliate link)
- more typically used in the United States
- held under your arm with top of the crutch resting next to your side
- weight to be put through the palm of the hand at the hand grip
- should have 2-3 fingers width between the top of the crutch and your armpit
- often used incorrectly/adjusted incorrectly resulting in leaning/hanging on the top of the crutch in the armpit area
- injury can sometimes occur due nerves in armpit area being compressed, resulting in crutch palsy/paralysis
- may be used for short or long term use, though more typically used short term
Forearm Crutch (Lofstrand Crutch) | [ Ссылка ] (affiliate link)
- more typically used in countries outside of the United States
- usually have some form of "cuff" that goes around the forearm
- weight to be put through the palm of the hands
- may be used for short or long term use, though more commonly used long term
Efficiency
Several studies look at heart rate, oxygen consumption and pivot point/length of the crutch with use of both underarm and forearm crutches with varying results. General consensus seems to be that though both types of crutches takes a degree of upper body strength, the forearm crutches seem to take a bit more.
Posture
Please let us know of any links to studies on the comparison of posture while using the underarm crutches verses the forearm crutches!! With Cindy's use of the crutches, she felt as though she was able to maintain a better upright posture with the forearm crutches, having to lean slightly forward when putting her weight down through her hands.
Comfort
Weight bearing with the standard underarm and forearm crutches occurs down through the palms of your hands. Many companies are making varying crutch styles for both the underarm and forearm crutch to address both the weight bearing issue as well as improve shock absorption. We received a crutch called the SmartCrutch. This forearm crutch has an adjustable arm trough, which allows the weight bearing to be spread from the hand, back through the forearm over a larger surface area, which can result in improved comfort. (Check out SmartCrutch Product Review here:
[ Ссылка ] )
In Summary, what type of crutch is best for you will depend on how long you will need to use them, what you will be using them for and how strong you are regarding upper body strength.
Crutches are not easy to use and will always take some practice not matter what type of crutch you use, especially on stairs. We recommend that you always consult with a local Physical Therapist regarding which type of crutch might be best for you as well as for training for use.
Check out these other helpful videos as well:
How to Sit, Stand and Walk with Crutches [ Ссылка ]
How to Go Up and Down Stairs with Crutches Non Weight Bearing [ Ссылка ]
How to Adjust Crutches [ Ссылка ]
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Disclaimer: This content (videos, comments and links), is intended as an informational resource for general education and demonstration purposes only. Adaptive Equipment Corner, LLC makes no representations about the accuracy or suitability of this content for any setting, situation or circumstance. Any content contained on this site should not be used as a replacement for any instruction given to you by your licensed healthcare professionals; nor should it prevent you from seeking their advice on your particular situation, circumstances or needs. Use of this site is at your sole risk. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Adaptive Equipment Corner, LLC, its officers, agents, employees and contractors from any loss, cost, damage, expense, attorney’s fees, and liability of any nature or kind, arising out of or as a result of your use or misuse of this site’s content and/or the intentional act, or the negligent act or negligent failure to act, of Adaptive Equipment Corner, LLC officers, agents, employees or contractors.
PRODUCT REVIEW DISCLAIMER: This video represents the honest opinions of Adaptive Equipment Corner, LLC. Thank you to SmartCrutch-usa.com for providing Adaptive Equipment Corner with a free SmartCrutch to use.
