Any folks in my reach who use forearm crutches regularly and might be willing to indulge a couple of questions? I find myself shopping.
@sungo I used them for several years. Maybe I can help? @epicdemiologist
@AlliFlowers @epicdemiologist Thank you :) I’m trying to avoid it but extended crutch use may be in my future. I’ve got axial crutches which I dislike pretty strongly and am looking at forearm crutches. Are there features or anti-features I should be looking at, if I’m pondering long term usage? And I’m seeing different cuff sizes, from full cuff to just a back plate. Apart from “this won’t fall over if I let go”, are there pros and cons for the different cuff types? Again, thank you for offering to help.
@sungo I went through several sets before finding the right cuff. I like the ones that will stay on your arm. They have to be both closed enough for your arm to not slip out, but open enough to slip over it in the winter if you’re wearing a heavy coat. I never found anything adjustable, which would have made much more sense. @epicdemiologist
@sungo The cuff doesn’t really provide any support at all. I have seen, but never used, the kind that are called “forearm” crutches, where you rest your entire forearm on a plate and hen hold the “handle.” Those would give you excellent support, I imagine. @epicdemiologist
@AlliFlowers @epicdemiologist those look … ouchie for me. I think those are my main questions right now. Off to do some shopping :) Thank you so much.
@sungo Let me know what you wind up with. @epicdemiologist
@AlliFlowers @epicdemiologist the ones that are fully open and some that don’t seem to have a proper cuff at all. I’m confused about why they’d even have that plate if it’s not supporting your arm or being held up.
the heavy coat is something I hadn’t considered and will add to my list of ponderings.