A crutch is a mobility aid that transfers weight from the legs to the upper body. It is often used by people who cannot use their legs to support their weight, for reasons ranging from short-term injuries to lifelong disabilities.
Crutches were used in ancient Egypt. In 1917, Emile Schlick patented the first commercially produced crutch; the design consisted of a walking stick with an upper arm support. Later, A.R. Lofstrand Jr. developed the first crutches with a height-adjustable feature. Over time, the design of crutches has not changed much, and the classic design continues to be the most commonly used.
There are several types of crutches:
◾Underarm or axillary
Axillary crutches are used by placing the pad against the ribcage beneath the armpit and holding the grip, which is below and parallel to the pad. They are usually used to provide support for patients who have temporary restriction on ambulation.
◾Forearm
A forearm crutch (also commonly known as an elbow crutch, Canadian crutch or "Lofstrand" crutch due to a brand by this name) has a cuff at the top that goes around the forearm.
◾ Platform
Top portion of a platform crutch showing platform and grip
These are less common and used by those with poor hand or grip strength due to arthritis, cerebral palsy, or other conditions.
◾ Leg support
These non-traditional crutches are useful for users with an injury or disability affecting one lower leg only. Walking sticks or canes serve an identical purpose to crutches, but are held only in the hand and have a limited load bearing capability because of this.
There are several types of crutches:
◾Underarm or axillary
Axillary crutches are used by placing the pad against the ribcage beneath the armpit and holding the grip, which is below and parallel to the pad. They are usually used to provide support for patients who have temporary restriction on ambulation.
◾Forearm
A forearm crutch (also commonly known as an elbow crutch, Canadian crutch or "Lofstrand" crutch due to a brand by this name) has a cuff at the top that goes around the forearm.
◾ Platform
Top portion of a platform crutch showing platform and grip
These are less common and used by those with poor hand or grip strength due to arthritis, cerebral palsy, or other conditions.
◾ Leg support
These non-traditional crutches are useful for users with an injury or disability affecting one lower leg only. Walking sticks or canes serve an identical purpose to crutches, but are held only in the hand and have a limited load bearing capability because of this.