Axillary Crutches, also called Underarm crutches, are the most common type of crutch- these are the typical crutches assigned to patients in recovery from ankle or knee injuries. They have a pad that is held under the arm, pressed into the patient's side during use. Axillary crutches are used by placing the pad against the ribcage beneath the armpit and holding the grip below and parallel to the dwelling. They are usually used to support patients with temporary restrictions on ambulation.
Walking Pattern;
Your axillary crutches will allow you to keep your affected leg off the floor. The padded crutch top should rest against your chest wall, with the upper arm pressing against it. It should not be positioned in the armpit as it will press against blood vessels and nerves leading to the arms and may cause tingling and pain. You should be able to hold the handgrips with your arms straight. 1. Place the crutches forward shoulder-width apart. 2. Keep your affected leg off the floor. 3. Step through with the other leg. 4. When steady, repeat stages 1 to 3.
Standing; 1. Hold both crutches in one hand by the handgrips. 2. Keep your affected leg off the floor. 3. Push up on the arm of the chair with the other hand to stand up. 4. When fully standing up, transfer your hands onto the crutches. Never stand up with your arms in the crutches.
Sitting; 1. Step back to the chair until you feel the chair with the back of your legs. 2. Keep your affected leg off the floor. 3. Remove both arms from the crutches. 4. Hold both crutches in one hand by the handgrips. 5. Place your other hand on the arm of the chair. 6. Bend forwards and sit down. Never sit down with your arms on the crutches.
Stairs:Walking upstairs; 1. Keep your affected leg off the floor and behind you 2. Move one step up with your more muscular leg 3. Move your crutches onto the same step.
Walking downstairs; 1. Keep your affected leg off the floor and in front of you 2. Move your crutches down one step 3. Move your more muscular leg onto the same step.
