Forearm Crutches
Posted on 16. Feb, 2009 by Dave in Mobility Aids
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Forearm crutches are one of the most flexible types of mobility aids that are suitable for people who can still use their legs. Forearm crutches are designed with a cuff that supports the arm. The cuff can be made of metal or plastic. They are usually more popular in Europe. They are most often used in the US by people with permanent disabilities but are increasingly being prescribed for individuals with short-term disabilities. Forearm crutches may also be called in some parts as Lofstrands, Canadian crutches, elbow crutches, and walk easies.
History of the Forearm Crutch
The first patent for a walking stick that resembled the forearm crutch was made in France by a French mechanical engineers named Emile Schlick. He filed the patent for his walking designed with an oblique support where the forearm can rest in 1915. The US patent for his walking was given in 1917.
Others who followed suit include Philipp Cenderstom and A.R. Losftrand, J.r. Lofstrand, Jr. filed his patent for a forearm crutch with an adjustable length in 1945. He is the reason why most adjustable crutches in the US are typically called Lofstrands today.
What to Look for in a Good Forearm Crutch
A good forearm crutch will have cuffs that surround the entire portion of your arms below the elbows to give your arm good support. The cuff should be comfortable and smooth, as friction between your arm and the cuff can lead to chaffing. To avoid chaffing, you can have the inner surface of the cuff padded with soft material such as sheepskin. The cuffs should also be wide enough for comfort and should not grip your arm too tightly.
Check the rubber tips of your forearm crutches. These are usually replaceable and are used to prevent the crutch from slipping especially when moving on slippery surfaces.
The weight of a forearm crutch is also essential most forearm crutches are very light, about a pound or two. Aside from the weight of the crutch, a good forearm crutch should also be able to withstand maximum weights. The weight capacity of the forearm crutch should be one of your main considerations especially if you are on the heavy side. Poor-quality forearm crutches may easily buckle and break under heavy weights and this could result to injury.
Most forearm crutches are made of aluminum, since aluminum is cheaper and easily moldable. They are also less prone to rusting and corrosion compared to crutches with magnesium bodies.
