Forearm crutches, also known as Loftstrand or Canadian crutches, are mobility aids providing support and enhancing mobility for individuals recovering from lower limb injuries or managing long-term disabilities. Unlike traditional crutches that bear weight through the armpits, forearm crutches transfer support through the forearms. This design can reduce nerve impingement and improve maneuverability, offering a more stable, controlled means of ambulation.
Proper Fitting and Adjustment
Correctly adjusting forearm crutches is important for safety and comfort. Set the handgrip height so that when your arms hang naturally, the top aligns with your wrist crease. This position ensures a slight elbow bend when grasping the handgrip, optimal for weight bearing and control.
The forearm cuff placement is important for stability and leverage. This cuff should rest 2 to 3 inches below the bend of your elbow. Proper cuff height secures the crutch to your forearm for effective control. An ill-fitting crutch can lead to discomfort, instability, and increased joint strain.
To verify the fit, stand upright with crutches in place, ensuring relaxed shoulders. Your elbows should exhibit a slight bend, and forearm cuffs should securely hold your forearms without feeling restrictive or pinching. This adjustment is important for safe, efficient crutch use.
Mastering Basic Movement
Learning to move effectively with forearm crutches begins with mastering basic transitions. To stand up from a seated position, shift to the edge of your chair and place both crutches on the side of your injured leg, or hold both crutches in one hand. Push off the chair’s armrest or a stable surface with your free hand while pushing down through the crutches and shifting your weight forward as you rise. This coordinated movement helps maintain balance.
When preparing to sit down, back up until the backs of your legs touch the chair or surface. Hold both crutches in one hand, then reach for the chair with your free hand, slowly lowering yourself while maintaining control. This controlled descent minimizes the risk of falling.
For walking on flat surfaces, the three-point gait is a common method. This involves advancing both crutches forward first, then bringing your injured leg forward to align with the crutches, and finally stepping through with your uninjured leg. The swing-through gait is another method, where both crutches are advanced, and then both legs swing through past the crutches. Maintaining an upright posture with your gaze directed forward promotes balance and prevents stumbling.
Navigating Obstacles
Navigating stairs safely with forearm crutches requires specific techniques. When ascending stairs without a handrail, lead by stepping up onto the next stair with your uninjured leg first. Bring the crutches and your injured leg up to meet it on the same step. This sequence prioritizes the stronger leg for initial support.
For descending stairs without a handrail, place the crutches and your injured leg down onto the lower step first. Slowly follow with your uninjured leg to the same step.
If a handrail is available, hold it with one hand while holding both crutches in the other. Follow the same leg and crutch sequence as described for ascending and descending stairs.
Curbs are approached similarly to single steps. To ascend a curb, place your uninjured foot onto the curb, then push up through the crutches to bring your injured leg and the crutches onto the curb. To descend, place the crutches and your injured leg down onto the lower surface first, then step down with your uninjured leg. Uneven terrain demands extra vigilance; take smaller, deliberate steps and spread your crutches slightly wider for an expanded base of support, scanning the ground.
Safety Practices and Maintenance
Regular safety checks are important for preventing falls and ensuring reliable function of your forearm crutches. Always inspect the rubber tips at the bottom of the crutches before each use. Worn, cracked, or smooth tips can reduce traction and increase the risk of slipping, so replace them promptly if worn.
Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking on wet, icy, or polished surfaces, which can compromise stability. At home, remove small rugs or any clutter from your walking path to ensure a clear path. These proactive measures help reduce hazards.
Basic maintenance contributes to the longevity and safety of your crutches. Keep the crutch shafts clean by wiping them down with a damp cloth. Periodically check that all adjustable pins and screws are securely fastened, as loose components can affect stability. Ensure handgrips and forearm cuffs are not loose, torn, or worn, as their integrity is important for support and comfort.