Crutch use, while beneficial for mobility, can lead to crutch rashes. They often appear where crutches contact the body, like the underarms and hands. Discomfort can range from mild irritation to significant pain, hindering daily activities. Understanding causes and implementing treatment and prevention can alleviate this common issue.
Causes and Types of Crutch Rashes
Crutch rashes result from friction, moisture, and pressure on the skin. Constant rubbing of crutch pads against the skin, particularly in the underarm and hand areas, creates friction. This mechanical stress damages the skin’s outer layer, leading to irritation. Sweat also accumulates, increasing moisture and softening the skin, making it more susceptible to damage.
Chafing, or irritant dermatitis, is the most common type of crutch rash. It occurs when continuous rubbing strips away the skin’s protective barrier, causing redness, tenderness, and sometimes small breaks in the skin. Heat rash (miliaria) can also develop when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat beneath the skin, leading to small, itchy bumps. Materials in crutch pads or cleaning agents can trigger contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction with redness, itching, and sometimes blistering.
At-Home Treatments for Relief
For immediate relief of a crutch rash, gently clean and dry the affected area. Wash the skin with a mild, unscented cleanser and lukewarm water, then gently pat it dry with a clean, soft towel. Ensuring the area is thoroughly dry helps prevent further irritation from moisture.
Applying a cool compress can reduce pain and itching by limiting blood flow and inflammation. Create a cool compress by wrapping ice cubes in a cloth or dampening a towel with cold water and applying it to the rash for 5 to 10 minutes. Over-the-counter creams can provide further relief, such as a thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream to calm inflammation and itching. Zinc oxide ointment, often found in diaper rash creams, creates a protective barrier on the skin, shielding it from friction and moisture. Applying a small amount of cornstarch or an absorbent powder can help keep the area dry, reducing chafing and discomfort.
Preventing Future Rashes
Preventing crutch rashes begins with proper crutch fitting. The top of the crutch should rest about 2 to 3 finger widths (approximately 5 cm) below the armpit. Hand grips should be adjusted so the elbow bends 20 to 30 degrees. This proper adjustment ensures body weight is primarily supported by the hands, not the armpits, reducing pressure and nerve damage.
Using specialized padding or covers on crutch handles and underarm pads can also help. These products, often made from high-density foam or gel, distribute pressure more evenly and use moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics to keep the skin dry and comfortable. Choosing appropriate clothing materials, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, can also help manage sweat and reduce friction. Maintaining good personal hygiene, including regularly cleaning the crutches, helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and irritants. Taking regular breaks from crutch use to air out the skin can also be beneficial, especially for long-term users.
When to See a Doctor
While many crutch rashes resolve with home care, certain signs indicate professional medical attention is needed. If the rash shows signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus, consult a healthcare provider. A fever accompanying the rash also suggests a possible infection requiring prompt evaluation.
Seek medical advice if the rash spreads rapidly, develops blisters, or causes severe pain. If the rash does not improve within a few days of consistent home treatment, or if symptoms worsen, a doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend further treatment. A healthcare provider can determine if the rash is more serious or requires prescription medication.