How to Fit Crutch Cuffs

Crutches are used to reduce the amount of body weight supported by the legs. They are used temporarily after injury or long-term with disabilities that affect walking abilities. Axillary crutches provide support under the armpit area and are the most commonly used type of crutches. Forearm crutches have cuffs that wrap 3/4 of the way around the forearms, eliminating pressure on the nerves and soft tissue in the armpits that are often irritated by axillary crutches. Follow several steps to properly adjust the fit of forearm crutches before use.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine the proper crutch height by aligning the crutch handle with the height of the user's wrist in a standing position. The user's elbows should bend to approximately 30 degrees when his hands rest on the crutch handles. Depress the snap button and pull or push the extensions of the crutch legs to the proper length and snap into place. Tighten the collar to secure in place.

• 2

  Use snap buttons on the forearm extensions to adjust cuff height to sit 1 inch to 2 inches below the user's elbow crease. Tighten the collars to secure in place.

• 3

  Squeeze together or manually stretch the crutch cuffs to fit the user's forearms. Tighten the cuffs until two fingers can be slid between the cuff and the user's forearm.