Crutches

Crutches provide excellent bilateral support for people who have non-weight bearing ability (they can hop on their good leg) or partial weight bearing ability. A certain amount of skill and dexterity is needed to use crutches safely. Three types of crutches are available:

• Axillary – or underarm crutches – made from wood or aluminium.
• Forearm crutches – also called elbow or “Canadian” crutches.
• Arthritic – also called “gutter” crutches.