Crutches & Crutch Accessories

Crutches provide a useful mobility aid which transfers weight away from the legs and towards the shoulders, arms, back and hands.

They are typically used by people with injury or disability who are unable to bear weight through their legs and feet.

Many use crutches after operations on the lower body, giving the body a chance to heal without channeling too much stress through the legs, feet or hips.

Crutches make it possible for someone to remain mobile without assistance, even without full use of the lower body.

As healing from injury progresses, using crutches to a gradually lesser extent may help someone move steadily towards unaided mobility.

If an individual is permanently disabiled or chronically impaired, crutches may allow them to remain mobile when the use of a wheelchair is impractical.

Most modern crutches are made of aluminium, with plastic handles. This makes them both lightweight and rigid.

Almost all versions are adjustable, so they can be easily set to suit the individual's height and build.

Forearm crutches - this design allows the user's weight to be channeled through the forearms and shoulders. Forearm crutches have a 'cuff' on the upper section, which wraps partially around the arm, and horizontal handles at around waist height. There are versions of forearm crutches which have 'open' cuffs. These do not fully wrap around the arm and won't prevent the crutches falling, should the user let go of the handgrip.

Axillary or 'Axilla' crutches - these are the more traditional Y-shaped design, with a horizontal pad which fits under the armpit and a lower padded handle for the hands.

Arthritic crutches (sometimes called 'trough crutches') - this style of crutch features horizontal troughs on which the user's forearms rest. They are designed for people whose hand-strength may not be adequate for conventional crutches.

Permanent user crutches - these crutches typically don't have the multiple adjustment components, but have a main shaft which is cut to size with a hacksaw. Many people find this design reduces squeaks and clicks, making the crutches more suitable for long term use.

The rubber ends of the crutches which fit at the bottom of the crutches are called ferrules.

Made of rubber or soft plastic, these create a high friction surface, meaning the crutches won't easily slip.

Standard grips tend to be fairly narrow and ideal for those with smaller hands.

Ergonomic grips have a contoured surface, spreading the user's weight more evenly. These are often favoured by people with larger hands.

Crutch accessories like hand pads can make a big difference to the comfort of your crutches.

Coloured crutches are also available, ideal for people looking for something more exciting than the standard-issue grey.