forearm crutches (Canadian or Lofstrand crutches)

Indications

• weight-bearing ambulation support
• high-active patients with paraplegia

Advantages

• hands may be free without disengaging crutch from forearm
• easier for climbing stairs than axillary crutches

Disadvantages

• wide base needed for ambulation
• crutch may easily disengage if hands are needed

Procedure

use of crutches

• fit similar to cane
• need good upper extremity strength
• axillary/forearm/platform

More general terms

• orthopedic crutches