Underarm crutches have been around a long time and they are absolutely useful and serve users well...for a short period of time. Long term use, on the other hand, can cause some potential issues:
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Nerve Damage (Crutch Palsy) – Prolonged pressure on the armpits can compress the brachial plexus nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, or even muscle weakness in the arms and hands.
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Poor Posture & Back Pain – Using underarm crutches incorrectly can cause hunching or leaning, leading to spinal misalignment and back pain.
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Shoulder & Wrist Strain – The repetitive weight-bearing on your shoulders and wrists can cause joint pain or even long-term damage.
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Underarm Skin Irritation & Pressure Sores – Constant friction from the crutches can lead to chafing, bruising, or sores in the underarm area.
If you need to be on crutches, forearm crutches are a great alternative to consider, particularly for long term users. Our smartCRUTCH® offers flexibility that other crutches do not have and our sassy designs make them just a bit fun! Enjoy The Freedom To Move!
