Archive for the ‘types’ Category

Crutches

Wednesday, May 21st, 2008

Crutches provide support to the body while moving from one place to another if the legs are injured or unable to support a person’s weight. Though sticks have been used for support for thousands of  years, today crutches are a medical tool designed scientifically and prescribed by doctors.

Different materials are used for manufacturing crutches depending on the condition and budget of  the patient - wood, steel, aluminum, titanium, composite material like carbon fiber. Some of  the different types of  medical crutches are:

1. Forearm crutches - used for persons suffering from permanent disabilities, and used by slipping the arm into a cuff

2. Underarm crutches - prescribed for patients suffering from a temporary disability or injury, also known as auxiliary crutches, as they provide additional support.

3. Knee support - for patients with a injury or disability below the knee

4. Platform - used by patients with poor hand grip due to arthritis and similar ailments.