How to choose crutch?

As a vital assistive device for individuals with lower limb injuries, those undergoing postoperative rehabilitation, or people with mobility impairments, the scientific selection of axillary crutches directly influences usage safety, rehabilitation efficacy, and even the risk of secondary harm. Blind purchasing often leads to problems such as armpit compression and pain, unsteady gait, or crutch breakage, which impede the recovery process. Therefore, when choosing axillary crutches, one should discard the misconception that “any functional crutch will suffice” and instead fully consider personal conditions, product features, and usage scenarios to find a truly suitable “safety companion.”

一.Adaptation to oneself is fundamental

Understanding your own needs is the fundamental prerequisite for choosing an axillary crutch.First, it is essential to accurately determine the user’s height and weight, as this is the core basis for matching the correct crutch model.Different brands of armpit crutches have clearly defined height matching ranges and weight limit limits.For example, a small-sized crutch is suitable for someone 150-165cm tall, a medium-sized crutch is suitable for someone 165-180cm tall, and a large-sized crutch is needed for someone over 180cm tall.In terms of load-bearing capacity, it is necessary to ensure that the user’s weight does not exceed the maximum load-bearing capacity indicated on the product.If the user’s weight is relatively high, products with reinforced load-bearing design should be selected first to avoid deformation or breakage due to the incline being unable to bear the weight.

Secondly, the needs should be determined based on the extent of physical injury: For injuries to one lower limb, such as ankle sprains or unilateral fractures, a single axillary crutches can meet the balance requirements; For elderly people with bilateral lower limb disabilities such as bilateral fractures, sequelae of stroke, or poor balance, it is necessary to use crutches in combination; If the user also has upper limb weakness, special attention should be paid to the effort-saving design and anti-slip performance of the crutches to reduce the burden on the upper limbs.

二.Structural materials determine safety and comfort

Paying attention to the core structure and materials is key to ensuring safe and comfortable use.

1.In terms of material selection, the mainstream materials for crutches are currently aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and stainless steel.

• Made of aluminum alloy, it is both lightweight and load-bearing, usually weighing between 1-1.5kg. It is easy to carry, cost-effective, and suitable for short-distance use at home or short-term transition during the recovery period.
• Carbon fiber is lighter, weighing as little as 0.8kg, and is tough and durable, making it suitable for people who need to carry it for a long time or use it frequently outdoors, but it is relatively expensive.
• Stainless steel has extremely high load-bearing capacity, but it is also quite heavy, often weighing over 2kg. It is suitable for users with a large base weight and a fixed range of activities.

2.The design of the underarm support and grip directly affects the comfort of use. The underarm support should avoid the area under the armpit where nerves and blood vessels are concentrated. Prioritize models with soft padding and a curved shape that conforms to the human underarm.

3.The distance between the underarm support and the crutch should be adjustable to ensure that the underarm only slightly contacts the support when standing, with the main force concentrated on the hand, thus avoiding compression of blood vessels and nerves that could cause numbness in the arm.The grip should be made of non-slip and breathable materials such as rubber or memory foam.

4.The grip position should be adjustable up and down to ensure that the arm is naturally bent at about 150° when holding it, reducing upper limb muscle fatigue.

5.The bottom anti-slip mat is the bottom line for safety. It should be made of high-quality rubber with deep texture and high wear resistance, so that it can provide stable grip even on wet and slippery floors such as tiles and bathroom floors. At the same time, make sure that the mat is removable and replaceable, so that it can be maintained in time when it wears out.

三.Proper selection and routine maintenance

It is important to emphasize that axillary crutches fall under the category of medical devices. When purchasing them, be sure to choose legitimate products with medical device registration certificates and quality certifications to avoid the safety hazards caused by buying substandard products.Before use, carefully read the product manual to understand the correct usage and maintenance. During daily use, regularly check the screws, connectors, feet, and other parts of the crank body. If any looseness or wear is found, tighten or replace them in time.

Choosing the right axillary crutches is not just about selecting an assistive tool, but about choosing a safe and smooth path to rehabilitation. Whether for personal use or for family members, a scientific and rigorous approach should be taken, comprehensively considering factors such as suitability, product quality, and user experience, to ensure that axillary crutches truly become a reliable aid on the road to rehabilitation.