How do I Fit Canadian Crutches?
Canadian crutches (also known as forearm crutches, Lofstrand crutches, elbow crutches and non-axillary crutches) are typically used for patients with a long-term disability to replace canes or walkers. They are usually made of aluminum with a padded grip and forearm cuff. They support 40 to 50% of the user's body weight and require more control than traditional wooden crutches. Unlike wooden crutches, they can be adjusted to fit the user's height and arm size.
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Instructions
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Height adjustment
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1
Put on your regular shoes and stand up. Relax your shoulders.
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2
Make a fist and flex your arm 20 to 30 degrees in front of you. Keep your wrist straight and extended.
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3
Press down the spring button located on the side of the crutch's leg extension. Raise or lower the crutch so that the hand-grip is level with your wrist.
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4
Repeat with the other crutch. Make sure both crutches are the same height.
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5
Rotate the collars located below the adjustment holes near the bottom of the crutches. This secures the leg extensions and makes the crutch more stable.
Cuff adjustment
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6
Put your arm through the collar and grasp the hand-grip. Your forearm should be angled between 20 and 30 degrees away from your body.
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7
Push down on the spring button on the side of the cuff and move it up or down until it is one to two inches below the elbow. Rotate the collar just below the cuff to secure in place.
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8
Widen or narrow the cuff to comfortably fit your arm. It should be at about a 20-degree angle.
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9
Repeat the process with the other cuff. Make sure that the cuff is at a similar height and angle on both crutches.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If you cannot stand on your own, ask someone to help you.
Make sure the spring buttons are fully engaged in their adjustment holes before using the crutches.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Vom Pferd getreten 7 image by M.R. from Fotolia.com
