How To Use Crutches Safely

Published: April 24, 2024
Crutches Safely
How We Work

Editorial Independence and Advertising Disclosure

Please Note: This is not medical advice, and you should seek the advice of a doctor or a qualified medical professional.

The Review Mobility editorial team is committed to providing independent and objective information to help our readers make informed decisions about mobility products and services. To support our work and ensure we can continue offering this content for free, we receive compensation from companies that advertise on our site. This comes from two main sources:

1. Paid Placements
We provide paid placements to advertisers, allowing them to present their offers within certain sections of our website. The compensation we receive may influence how and where advertisers’ offers appear. However, we do not include all companies or products available in the market.

2. Affiliate Links
Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on them and make a purchase. This does not affect our editorial independence—our recommendations, reviews, and guidance remain entirely based on research, expertise, and user feedback.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Review Mobility does not guarantee that all details are complete or entirely current. We make no warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the information provided.

To help our readers compare mobility products and services, we partner with carefully selected providers who offer non-advised comparison services. These services help users find and compare a wide range of options in a way that is designed to be the most useful to the widest audience.

Our Comparison Service Partners Include:

  • Mobility Insurance
  • Mobility Scooters & Equipment Retailers
  • Stairlift Providers & Installers
  • Home Adaptations & Accessibility Solutions

We are committed to transparency and integrity in our recommendations. If you have any questions about how we operate, feel free to contact us.

Top Crutches

Crutches may be more comfortable for you due to an accident or a long-term illness. Many crutches on the market look pretty different from NHS-issued ones. Check to see if there is any other equipment you may utilise. There will be a discussion of what to look for and how to make it more enjoyable. Here is how to use crutches safely.

How To Use Crutches Key Points

  • With broad grips, you can reduce the slicing in your hands.
  • Curved grips and plastic on the hand’s surface are common design elements.
  • It has velcro straps for attaching handles and is waterproof on the exterior.
  • Putting a cushion on top of your crutches may help some individuals.
  • The bottom of the crutches has a different grip.

Use Crutches With Handle Convenience For Safety And Comfort.

Handle selection may increase comfort owing to a variety of possibilities. Plastic hand grips are typical in NHS-approved versions. If you wear them for a lengthy period, you may notice them on your hands. Broad grips can reduce slicing.

Because their handles are more general and ergonomically designed, they are more comfortable to hold. This tool’s perfect plastic curves allow you to apply more downward pressure with less effort.

Materials other than PVC may make crutch handles more pleasant to grasp. Curved grips and plastic on the hand’s surface are common design elements. There are various shades of grey to choose from. The crutch has Velcro straps for attaching handles and is waterproof on the exterior. If you have arthritis or another condition that causes hand pain while exerting pressure, these gadgets will be helpful to you.

Platform Style Mobility Aids For People With Arthritis

Elbow crutches are the best way to transfer weight from one body part to another. This crutch also has a vertical grip on the bottom of the platform. Long shafts extend from the trough’s centre to the ground, making walking about easier. The user must sit in them to utilise the channels while holding onto a strap. The hands can grasp the handlebars while the body is still in place.

Simple adjustable mechanisms that suit varying arm lengths allow for the exact positioning of the trough around the grip. People with arthritic hands may be adversely affected by this handling assistance since their weight is dispersed across a large portion of their forearms.

A Pair Of Elbow Or Arm Crutches

One of the two horizontal cushions on this crutch is attached directly to the hip. Unlike wooden crutches, this crutch has a similar shape. Aluminium is often used in vehicles because of its slight weight and high rigidity. Axillary versions need more fabric; there is a significant difference. As a result, they are much heavier. Walking with them may also be done using a particular method. The axle rests on the pad and is a typical blunder when applying pressure. If nerves are irritated, blood flow might be limited or even blocked.

Changes That The Crutchers made

The bottom of the crutches has a different grip. Considering your hands ‘ stress, adding additional cushioning in this region could be good. Consumers say bigger pads are more comfortable since they distribute the user’s weight more evenly. Other options for the user’s comfort include custom crutch pads with Velcro or sticky clothes.

Crutch Personalisation: Making It Work For You!

You should be able to measure the distance between your wrist and the handle using your free hand. With your arm at a moderate angle and your elbow slightly bent, you may help by applying weight. This tool can also be used to shorten the top shaft of a crutch.

There is no better way to support and protect the forearm than this method. To adjust the length of the top shaft, you may utilise a pin-clip mechanism again. When using forearm crutches, make sure your elbow is bent 15-20 degrees. A hook-and-loop armband holds the crutch in place when you let go of the handle instead of cuffs that flare out. This is a helpful feature for those with difficulty lifting things off the ground.

Summary Of How To Use Crutches

Handle selection may increase comfort owing to a variety of possibilities. Curved grips and plastic on the hand’s surface are common design elements. This handling assistance may adversely affect platform-style mobility aids for people with arthritic hands since their weight is dispersed across a large portion of their forearms. You can also get folding crutches.

Some individuals may find it helpful to put a cushion on top of their crutches. A hook-and-loop armband holds the crutch in place when the handle is released. Other options for the user’s comfort include custom crutch pads with Velcro or sticky clothes. That concludes how to use crutches.

Top Crutches

Related Crutch Usage and Mobility Aid Articles

author avatar
Jacob Whitmore
Jacob is a seasoned wordsmith with a passion for exploring and evaluating the world of mobility. Jacobs work has been providing insightful and well-researched reviews that help consumers make informed choices when it comes to their mobility needs.

More Mobility Content

Best Walking Sticks for Elderly UK: Top Sellers for Balance in 2025
Best Walking Sticks for Elderly UK: Top Sellers for Balance in 2025

Key Takeaways For Best Walking Sticks For Balance Walking Sticks for Balance Overview: Essential mobility aids and walking sticks for balance offer support and stability, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing confidence during walking. Key Features to Consider:...

Stairlift Prices: How Much Is A Stairlift? | Review Mobility
Stairlift Prices: How Much Is A Stairlift? | Review Mobility

Key Takeaways For How Much Is A Stairlift? Stairlift prices vary from £1,000 to £6,000, depending on the type and features. Straight stairlifts are cost-effective, starting from £1,000+, while curved stairlifts are more complex and cost £2,000+. Outdoor stairlifts can...

Best Blood Circulation Machine For Legs – Best Sellers
Best Blood Circulation Machine For Legs – Best Sellers

Key Takeaways For Best Revitive Alternatives Blood circulation machines for legs enhance circulation using techniques like electrical stimulation or massage, providing relief for poor circulation, leg discomfort, and reducing swelling and pain in the feet and ankles....

Best Grabber Tool for Elderly UK: Handy Buying Guide
Best Grabber Tool for Elderly UK: Handy Buying Guide

Key Takeaways For Handy Grabbers Tailored Grabbers for the Elderly:* Discover considerations for selecting grabber tools catering to unique needs, emphasizing mobility, ease of use, and reaching capacity, especially relevant for the elderly seeking convenience...

Please Note: This is not medical advice, and you should seek the advice of a doctor or a qualified medical professional.

Disclaimer* Please note that some of this page’s links are affiliate links. Meaning if you click on them, we receive a small commission.