Crutches are common mobility aids used after injuries or surgeries to help individuals move while keeping weight off an affected limb. Many wonder if using crutches, which can feel physically demanding, actually makes them stronger. This article explores how the body adapts and the specific strength gains that may occur during recovery.
How Crutches Support Movement and Engage Muscles
When using crutches, the body’s weight shifts from the injured lower limb to the upper body and core, allowing for mobility without bearing weight on the affected area. This shift engages several muscle groups to facilitate movement and maintain balance. The triceps, located at the back of the upper arm, are heavily involved in pushing down on the crutch handles for propulsion and weight-bearing. The deltoids in the shoulders stabilize and position the crutches, while the pectorals in the chest provide additional support.
Beyond the arms and shoulders, the body’s core muscles, including the abdominals and lower back stabilizers, are continuously engaged. These muscles maintain posture, provide spinal alignment, and ensure balance during each step. The healthy leg also experiences increased demands, as it must bear more body weight and develop strength and stability in muscles like the glutes and quadriceps.
The Reality of Strength Gains from Crutch Use
While navigating with crutches can feel strenuous and engages various muscles, the resulting strength gains are specific rather than comprehensive. The primary benefits are an increase in muscular endurance and stabilization strength in the upper body and core. This means muscles become more efficient at sustaining repetitive tasks and maintaining stability over time, rather than significantly increasing in size or raw power.
Crutches function as a support tool, not a strength-training device, and any muscle development is a secondary effect of their use for mobility. The constant activation of muscles like the triceps, deltoids, and core for balance and propulsion contributes to this functional strength, which helps with daily activities while injured. Conversely, the injured limb, especially if non-weight-bearing, will likely experience muscle atrophy due to disuse, leading to a reduction in muscle mass and strength. This creates an imbalance that often requires targeted rehabilitation once crutches are no longer needed.
Preventing Imbalances and Improper Use
Proper crutch fitting and technique are important to maximize support and prevent strain or further injury. The top of the crutches should sit about one to two inches below the armpits when standing straight, and the handgrips should align with the wrist, allowing for a slight bend of 20 to 30 degrees at the elbow. Weight should be borne through the hands and wrists, not by resting the armpits on the crutch pads.
Improper weight distribution on the armpits can compress nerves in the area, potentially leading to a condition known as crutch palsy, which can cause numbness, tingling, or even motor control issues in the hands and arms. Other issues from incorrect use include shoulder pain, wrist strain, and muscle imbalances that can affect posture and gait. Using crutches correctly ensures safety and effective mobility, minimizing risks while supporting the healing process.