When a temporary injury or surgery limits mobility, crutches become a necessary tool. Renting crutches is a widely available and practical solution for individuals needing short-term support during recovery. This option provides necessary stability and weight-bearing assistance without the long-term commitment of ownership. Renting often offers financial relief compared to purchasing a new set. Understanding the process can simplify the logistics of managing a short-term mobility issue.
Primary Sources for Crutch Rental
The most specialized source for temporary mobility aids is a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier. These companies focus on medical devices, providing the widest selection of crutch types, including forearm and platform models, along with professional fitting services. DME suppliers are the best choice for rentals extending beyond a few weeks, often offering competitive monthly rates and comprehensive maintenance checks.
For immediate and convenient access, many large retail pharmacies and drug stores offer crutch rentals. While their inventory might be less extensive than a dedicated DME supplier, they serve as an excellent option for quickly securing a device when a need arises suddenly. This convenience often comes with a slightly higher daily or weekly rental rate due to the ease of local access.
Hospitals and urgent care centers frequently provide crutches directly upon patient discharge following an injury or procedure. While this offers immediate relief, the hospital’s rental or purchase costs can be higher. They may also only offer a limited selection compared to specialized suppliers, focusing primarily on standard underarm models.
Understanding Rental Costs and Insurance Coverage
Crutch rental costs usually involve three primary tiers: daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Daily rates offer flexibility but are the most expensive per diem, while monthly rates significantly reduce the average cost for longer recovery periods. It is wise to inquire about the rental provider’s policy on converting a weekly rate to a monthly one if the recovery time is unexpectedly extended.
Most rental providers require a refundable security deposit to cover potential damage or failure to return the equipment. This deposit amount varies but generally reflects the full replacement cost, often ranging from $50 to $100. Upon the safe and timely return of the device, this deposit is fully refunded to the renter.
Coverage for mobility aids often depends on a physician’s prescription certifying medical necessity. Private health insurance plans and Medicare typically classify crutches as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Medicare Part B, for example, may cover 80% of the cost of renting or purchasing DME, provided the supplier accepts Medicare and the device is deemed medically necessary.
Insurers often prefer to cover the cost of renting DME for short-term needs, reserving purchase coverage for permanent conditions. Always verify with your insurance provider whether they cover rental fees, the total allowed amount, and if the specific supplier is within your approved network. Understanding these details before signing any rental agreement prevents unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Important Considerations Before Renting
Safety is paramount; proper sizing is the most important factor before taking a rental device home. Incorrectly sized crutches can lead to nerve damage in the armpits or cause instability, increasing the risk of a fall. The top of the crutch should rest two to three finger-widths below the armpit, ensuring the user bears weight through their hands and not their axilla.
The hand grips must be adjusted so the user’s elbow is slightly bent, typically at a 15 to 30-degree angle, to maximize comfort and leverage. Before accepting the rental, carefully inspect the equipment for structural integrity. This includes checking that adjustment pins lock securely and that the rubber tips (ferrules) are not worn smooth, which is necessary for maintaining traction.
While renting is convenient, individuals with very short-term needs might consider low-cost alternatives. Purchase options from online classifieds or thrift stores are available, and some community programs offer crutches for temporary loan. Weighing the rental cost against the price of a new pair is worthwhile if the recovery period is uncertain.