Adjustable Underarm Crutches with Elbow Support
If you’ve ever been on traditional crutches, you know the misery: sore armpits, aching wrists, shoulders that feel like they’ve done a full CrossFit session, and that loud CLACK-CLACK every time the tips hit the floor. These spring-assisted forearm crutches fix almost every single complaint people have about crutches—while actually helping you move better and heal faster.
I’ve been on crutches three times in my life (torn Achilles, broken ankle, and knee surgery). These are the first pair I didn’t count the days until I could throw away.
The Magic Is in the Springs (No, Really)
Hidden inside each crutch is a patented spring system that does two incredible things:
- It absorbs the jarring impact when the tip hits the ground—so your elbows, shoulders, and wrists don’t take the beating.
- It quietly “returns” some of that energy to help lift the crutch on your next step.
The result? You glide instead of hobble. No more clacking noises in the grocery store. No more wincing every time you take a step on concrete. My physical therapist actually said, “Whatever those are, keep using them.”
Finally, Crutches That Don’t Wreck Your Wrists
Traditional forearm crutches force your hands into an awkward death-grip. These have truly ergonomic angled handles and padded forearm cuffs that let your wrists stay neutral—like you’re just resting your arms instead of clutching for dear life.
After a 20-minute walk, my hands aren’t numb and my wrists aren’t screaming. The cuffs come in two sizes and hug your forearms securely without cutting off circulation or causing that dreaded “crutch carpal tunnel.”
Tips That Grip Like Mountain Boots
The articulating crutch tips move with the ground instead of slipping out from under you. Stairs, gravel, wet sidewalks, grass, even loose rugs—no drama. They pivot and flex exactly like a good hiking shoe sole. I’ve used them in rain and light snow and never once felt sketched out.
Built Light but Stupidly Strong
Each crutch weighs only 1.8 lbs yet holds up to 350 lbs. The aluminum is aircraft-grade, the handles are reinforced, and the springs are rated for hundreds of thousands of steps. I’m 220 lbs and I’ve been on them daily for six weeks with zero creaking or wear.
Two Sizes That Actually Cover Everyone
- Short: 4’2″ – 5’5″
- Tall: 5’3″ – 6’8″
Height adjustment is tool-free and locks with rock-solid push buttons (10 settings, about 1-inch increments). Takes 15 seconds to dial in the perfect fit.
Posture You Didn’t Know You Missed
Because the spring assist encourages a smoother, more natural gait, you automatically stand taller. My PT noticed my hips weren’t hiking up the way they usually do on regular crutches. Better posture = less back and hip pain while you heal.
Who These Crutches Are Perfect For
- Anyone recovering from ankle, foot, or knee surgery
- Achilles or ligament tear warriors
- Amputees waiting for prosthetics
- People with long-term lower-leg issues
- Athletes who refuse to feel “disabled” while sidelined
- Anyone who’s ever said “I hate crutches”
The Only Downsides (Because I’m Honest)
They’re slightly more expensive than the $30 aluminum crutches at the pharmacy—but you’ll save that in ibuprofen and physical therapy co-pays. The forearm cuffs take about a day to break in and figure out the perfect tightness. Once you do, you’ll never go back.
Final Verdict
If you’re going to be on crutches for more than a week, do yourself a favor and get these. Your shoulders, elbows, wrists, and sanity will thank you every single step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are these underarm or forearm crutches? A: They’re forearm crutches (sometimes called elbow or Lofstrand crutches). No painful armpit pressure!
Q: How quiet are they really? A: Almost silent. The spring dampens the impact so you don’t get that embarrassing clack-clack in quiet offices or stores.
Q: Can I use just one crutch? A: Yes—many people use a single crutch on the opposite side of the injury. They’re sold in pairs but work great individually.
Q: How long do the springs last? A: Rated for over 500,000 steps with no loss of performance. Most people never wear them out.
Q: Will they fit in a suitcase? A: Yes—collapsed length is about 35–40 inches depending on height setting. They fit diagonally in most carry-ons.
Q: Are replacement tips available? A: Yes, standard articulating tips are easy to find and swap out in seconds.
If you’re facing weeks or months on crutches, don’t suffer with the cheap ones. These spring-assisted forearm crutches are the closest thing to “pain-free crutches” I’ve ever found—and trust me, I’ve tried them all. Your body will feel the difference from the very first step.
Affiliate Disclaimer
This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our content and reviews while allowing us to continue sharing the best collectible finds.