My doctor has suggested switching over to one fore-arm crutch instead of my cane on the days my hips really hurt. This is only once in a while when I inadvertently get some starch. I also work at an elementary school and the kids have knocked my cane out of my hands several times (one time causing me to fall on my keister- I didn't go down gracefully).

I was wondering if anyone else has to use a cane or fore-arm crutches once in a while. Maybe I'm just lucky that way. Hope this isn't being too nosey.

Teri

Used a cane for a long time in my earlier years. Never got advised as you did but occasionally had a problem. The forearm crutch sounds more intrusive and bothersome.

Having a hard time picturing using just one crutch...

I have used a normal pair of crutches though, and found it a good way to get around after knee surgery (had a sports injury when I was 16). It was also kind of fun. Except in crowded spaces -- much better where there is plenty of room.

Also used a cane for a couple months early last year (badly sprained a hip merely trying to do stretches). The cane was not so fun but easier to deal with indoors.

i think it was bridget who liked the forearm crutches better than the regular ones. maybe ask her her opinion.

something you may be interested in. surely you could rent one to see if you like it.

smartCrutch Forearm CrutchesThe smartCRUTCH "Forearm walking crutch" design incorporates all of the benefits of standard walking crutches while minimizing the compressive forces on the hands and wrists. It does this by allowing the user to adjust the angle of the forearm platform to reduce or increase the amount of weight load to the hands and wrists. Transferring this load to the forearm can reduce or potentially eliminate injuries commonly found with the use of standard under arm crutches or forearm crutches. smartCRUTCH also helps maintain proper posture, relieve stress and minimize fatigue, setting you up for a safe and speedy recovery. If you are ready to buy forearm walking crutches and want to experience a level of comfort not found with any other crutch then smartCRUTCH is the product for you.

Then use the cane as a defensive weapon against hyper active kids. good lucks

I have an acquaintance that uses only the forearm ones on both arms and prefers them alot more. It does however make you lean a lot more forward and bent over more.

I use two crutches if I have to walk a lot, but one crutch most of the time now. Forearm crutches give an awful lot more support than a cane does. If you can get a decent crutch with a soft anatomical grip it is a lot more comfortable to use than the standard hard grips. I also have one with a half cuff rather than the full cuff. The full cuff has the advantage in that when you let go the grip it stays on your arm. Thats also its disadvantage. I haven't ever seen any of the newer designs of crutches in the UK but some of them that incorporate underarm support as well as hand grip look really interesting. They would get rid of the problem I have in that my arms can end up hurting if I walk too much.

I'd say go with the suggestion because I think it would work well for all the reasons it was suggested, but if you possibly can try out a few different types first to see what suits you best.

Thanks for all the suggestions. I never thought about renting them first. That way I can see if it will work for me. $100 is a big chunk of change.

Elmerfudd- I'm also going to check into the Smartcrutch. I have already looked into Millennial crutches but it would be nice to have other options. And I'll definately be looking out for those hyper-active kids (my own being one of them)

I have been using a cane with an anatomical grip for years. Much better for me than the crutches I was using, less stress on my shoulders and it helps keep my posture in line.

Cindy