1. Ashley Roberto ED 315-01 April 4, 2013
Crutches
Ashley Roberto ED April 4, 2013

2. What Are Crutches?
Assistive technology used to assist or support those whose ability to walk is affected by a disability or an injury

3. Background Information
Since ancient times, humans have used crutch-like devices
Present-day crutches evolved from basic “T” crutches

4. Types of Crutches
Underarm Crutches
Forearm Crutches

5. Types of Crutches
Leg Support Crutches
Platform Crutches

6. Types of Crutches
Strutter Crutches

7. Those with the following disabilities or impairments can use crutches:
Who Can Use Crutches?
Those with the following disabilities or impairments can use crutches:
Lower-limb injuries
Lower-limb surgery
Lower-limb amputations
Lower-limb paralysis
Arthritis
Cerebral palsy

8. Purpose Reduce weight load on one of the legs
Increase support base to improve balance and stability
Helps those who cannot or who have difficulty walking

9. How Do Crutches Work?

10. Advantages Disadvantages
Aids in walking
Reduces recovery time
Low cost
Allows the benefits of upright movement and posture
Can be maneuvered in places that wheelchairs cannot go
(Forearm crutches) More hand movement
Limits upper body freedom (except leg support crutches)
Can strain the arms, upper body, and hands

11. Cost of Crutches Underarm crutches: $15 to $40
Forearm crutches: $40 to $100
Leg support crutches: $450 +

12. Reliability
Crutches are reliable The consumer has to make sure that he/she is using the appropriate device properly

13. Does the CNMI Have Access to Crutches?
YES!

14. References
Crutches cost. (2010, Septe). Retrieved from Cunha, J. (2012, April 20). Crutches. Retrieved from article_em.htm