Case studies
Crutches
This section includes two styles of children's crutches - axilla (or underarm crutches), and elbow crutches.
As a general rule, axilla crutches are used by children who cannot weight bear through their affected leg and elbow crutches by those who can partially weight bear.
The axilla crutches listed are made of wood. The elbow crutches are made of aluminium - many with a coloured paint finish.
Some crutches have contoured handles which spread pressure over a wider area of the palm for more comfortable use. A padded hand grip can also help to improve comfort.
Please read our FAQs if you have any questions about how to change information, what the DLF ratings means, etc.
Help and advice
You may like to read our guidelines for the use of crutches.
It is important that your child is measured by their physiotherapist to ensure that the crutches are at the correct height for use. Both axilla and elbow crutches usually have two adjustment points...
- Axilla: the overall height can be adjusted and the hand grip also adjusts along the uprights of the crutches.
- Elbow: the overall height can be adjusted and some can also be adjusted between the hand grip and the cuff (known as double adjustable).
Elbow crutches are available with two styles of cuff: open or closed. An open cuff is semi-circular and provides a support to brace the forearm against. A closed cuff is an incomplete ring which prevents the forearm slipping forwards and holds the crutch on the arm. They require dropping the arm in from above.
Regular maintenance of crutches is essential to ensure safety. Checks should be made for signs of wear and tear, particularly at the site of screws and height adjustment mechanisms. All ferrules should be checked regularly and replaced as appropriate.
View references and sources of further information ›To discuss sponsorship please contact DLF's Marketing Department.
Need general advice?
If you want general advice, please ask questions in Youreable parents corner.
Ask now »