Description

Axillary crutches, commonly known as underarm crutches, are a type of mobility aid that can be particularly useful for non-weight-bearing recovery.  These lightweight aluminium axilla crutches are based on the traditional wooden design with the benefits that lightweight aluminium can offer. 

They have a comfortable underarm pad and hand grip. The underarm pad and hand grip are both height adjustable to ensure maximum user comfort and usability.

They are supplied with a PU foam underarm pad to offer comfort and support to the user, these are replaceable items should they become worn out.

They should be adjusted to suit the underarm height first. Secondly, adjust the hand grip to a comfortable height, this is normally the height from the floor to the crease in your wrist, when wearing normal outdoor shoes.

The height is adjusted on this bottom section, simply depress the sprung button and slide the inner section to the required length, ensuring that the button is fully located before use.
 

Benefits:

Full Non-Weight Bearing Support: 
Axillary crutches are designed to transfer weight from the legs to the upper body, allowing the user to completely offload a lower limb as needed.

Balance and Stability: 
They provide a wide base of support which helps in maintaining balance and stability while standing or walking.

Independence: 
Using axillary crutches can provide the user with a level of independence, as they allow for movement without requiring assistance from others.

Adjustability: 
These crutches are typically adjustable in height, which means they can be customized to the user’s size for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

Cost-Effective: 
Axillary crutches are widely available and tend to be less expensive than other mobility aids, such as knee scooters or hands-free crutches.

Considerations:

Proper Usage: 
It’s important to use axillary crutches properly to avoid additional complications, such as nerve damage or discomfort under the arms. The top pads should rest lightly under the armpits while the hands take most of the weight through the hand grips.

Strength and Endurance Required: 
The user must have good upper body strength and endurance to effectively use axillary crutches, as these are essential for proper movement and support.

Risk of Axillary Injury: 
If not used correctly, the pressure under the arms can cause nerve damage. To prevent this, users should be educated on the correct technique, where the majority of the weight is borne through the hands, not the underarms.

Learning Curve: 
There can be a learning curve associated with the use of axillary crutches. It takes coordination and practice to maneuver safely, especially when navigating uneven surfaces, stairs, or obstacles.

For anyone considering axillary crutches for non-weight-bearing mobility, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential. They can provide guidance on the correct size and proper usage to ensure safety and comfort. Additionally, they may advise on exercises to strengthen the upper body to better cope with the demands of using these crutches.