Adjusting Forearm Crutches: A Guide

Forearm or elbow crutches are equipped with a cuff surrounding your forearm and a handgrip for stability during walking. If provided by a healthcare professional, heed their advice on usage. You might need to customize the height for comfort. Adjusting forearm crutches is relatively simple, but ensure to secure them after adjustments to prevent accidents.

Assess the handgrip height. Begin by gauging the handgrip's position relative to your height. Stand upright with relaxed shoulders and arms hanging loosely at your sides. If needed, have someone assist you with balance. Place one crutch beside you and check the handgrip's alignment with your wrist. It should be at wrist level.

• Ensure your arm hangs fully extended at your side.
• If the handgrip isn't aligned with your wrist crease, it requires adjustment.

Adjusting the Handgrip Height If you find the need to modify the handgrip height, locate the spring buttons on the crutch's leg extensions. These buttons, or metal knobs, are positioned along a row of small holes on each crutch. Adjust the height by pushing the button in and either raising or lowering the leg extension.

• If the button doesn't move, ensure it's fully pressed in.

Verifying the Height Adjustment After adjusting the crutch height, perform a quick test to confirm. Stand naturally and grip the handgrips as if walking with the crutches. Check the angle of your elbow, which should be bent approximately 15 to 30 degrees.

• If needed, use a mirror or ask for assistance to assess the angle.
• Ensure both crutches are adjusted to the same height.

Securing the Crutches at the Correct Height Once you've adjusted the crutch height, secure them in position to prevent shifting. Ensure the spring button is firmly set in the adjusted hole. Then, tighten the collar located beneath the adjustment holes, similar to tightening a screw or jar lid.

• Verify the button's firmness before tightening the collar.

Inspecting the Cuff Placement After adjusting the crutch height, make necessary adjustments to the cuffs. These ring-shaped plastic pieces accommodate your arms while using the crutches. When worn and standing, the cuffs should encircle your forearm just below the elbow bend.

• Ensure the cuffs don't hinder elbow movement, positioned about one or two inches below the elbow bend.

Adjusting the Cuff Position If the cuffs aren't positioned correctly, you'll need to make adjustments for easier and safer use of the crutches. Similar to adjusting handgrip height, locate the spring button on each cuff, typically at the cuff's rear where it connects to the crutch.

• Press the button and adjust the cuffs up or down as needed.
• Observe the cuffs moving along adjustment holes on the crutch's side.
• If your cuff has an opening, ensure it faces forward, aligned with your direction.

Securing the Cuffs Once the cuffs are at the desired height and comfortable, secure them in place. Ensure the spring button is firm and not easily pressed. Then, tighten the collars beneath each cuff. Additionally, ensure the collar tightened after height adjustment remains secure.

• Forearm crutches may allow cuff width adjustment for a snug fit without restricting movement.

• Use a mild detergent to clean your crutches.
• Regularly check rubber tips for damage. Replace or repair damaged tips to prevent slipping, as they provide stability.
• Seek guidance from a doctor or physical therapist to adjust and use forearm crutches correctly.

• Ensure the spring buttons on your elbow crutches are securely locked. Loose buttons may lead to crutch slippage and potential accidents.
• Cuffs are not meant to bear your weight; rather, they enhance stability while using elbow crutches.