The Journey to Obtaining Crutches
After an injury or surgery to a lower limb, a healthcare provider may determine that you need to limit or avoid putting weight on that leg to allow it to heal [1.4.4, 1.4.5]. This is where crutches become essential. While you can often buy crutches over the counter at a pharmacy or medical supply store, getting a prescription is crucial for insurance coverage and ensuring you have the right type of device properly fitted for your needs [1.2.2, 1.3.5].
Step 1: Medical Evaluation and Prescription
The first and most important step is to see a healthcare professional. They will assess your injury and determine the appropriate course of action [1.2.5].
- Who Can Prescribe Crutches? A range of medical experts can prescribe crutches if they deem them medically necessary. This includes your primary care physician (GP), an orthopedist, a physical therapist, or a doctor at an urgent care center or hospital [1.3.2, 1.3.4, 1.4.1]. In some cases, physician assistants and nurses can also evaluate the need for crutches [1.3.6].
- Common Reasons for a Prescription: A prescription is typically written for conditions that require you to be non-weight-bearing or partial-weight-bearing. These include lower limb fractures (like a broken ankle or foot), severe sprains, post-surgical recovery (e.g., after a knee replacement or ACL surgery), and certain neurological conditions affecting balance or leg strength [1.4.1, 1.4.2, 1.4.6].
Step 2: Understanding the Types of Crutches
Your provider will recommend a specific type of crutch based on your injury, physical condition, and expected duration of use [1.5.5]. The two most common types are underarm (axillary) and forearm (Lofstrand) crutches.
| Feature | Underarm (Axillary) Crutches | Forearm (Lofstrand) Crutches |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Short-term use (1-3 months), such as recovery from an injury or surgery [1.5.5]. | Long-term or permanent use for chronic conditions or disabilities [1.5.5]. |
| Support | Support is transferred to the user's hands and the chest wall [1.7.4]. They require less upper body strength to master initially [1.5.5]. | Support is focused on the forearms via cuffs, allowing for greater hand freedom [1.5.4]. They require more upper body strength [1.5.5]. |
| Pros | Generally less expensive, readily available, and perceived as easier to learn for immediate use [1.5.1, 1.5.6]. | Promote better posture, are less cumbersome, and reduce the risk of nerve damage in the armpit ("crutch palsy") [1.5.1, 1.5.3]. |
| Cons | Can cause pain and nerve damage (axillary neuropathy) if leaned on incorrectly [1.5.3]. More cumbersome, especially on stairs [1.5.4]. | Can be more expensive and require more practice and core strength to master [1.5.4]. |
Step 3: Acquiring Your Crutches
With a prescription in hand, you have several options for getting your crutches.
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Suppliers: These are specialized stores that provide medical equipment. A key advantage is that they are typically enrolled with insurance providers like Medicare, ensuring your device is covered [1.2.1]. Your doctor's office can often refer you to an approved supplier [1.2.1].
- Pharmacies: Many local pharmacies and large chain drugstores sell crutches [1.2.2, 1.6.4]. This is a convenient option for quick access. However, their selection may be limited [1.3.5].
- Hospitals or Urgent Care: Often, if you are treated for an injury at a hospital, they will issue you a pair of crutches directly. Be sure to ask about the cost, as it can sometimes be higher than purchasing them yourself [1.3.5].
Navigating Cost and Insurance
Crutches are classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). If they are prescribed by your doctor and deemed medically necessary, most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, will cover a significant portion of the cost [1.2.3, 1.2.6]. You will typically be responsible for a copayment or coinsurance, which is usually around 20% of the approved amount after your deductible is met [1.6.5].
It can sometimes be cheaper to buy crutches directly without using insurance, especially for basic models where the out-of-pocket cost might be less than your insurance copay [1.6.1]. Standard underarm crutches can cost anywhere from $35 to $70, while forearm crutches are often more expensive [1.6.3, 1.6.4].
Renting vs. Buying
For short-term injuries, renting crutches can be a viable option. It involves lower upfront costs and you don't have to worry about storing the equipment after recovery [1.9.1, 1.9.4]. However, if you anticipate needing them for a longer period, buying is often more cost-effective over time [1.9.2].
Proper Fitting and Safe Use
A crucial part of the process is ensuring your crutches are fitted correctly. A physical therapist or the DME supplier can help with this [1.3.2].
- Height Adjustment: For underarm crutches, there should be a 1-2 inch gap between the top pad and your armpit when standing straight. Your weight should be on your hands, not your armpits [1.7.2, 1.7.4].
- Handgrip Position: The handgrips should be level with your wrist, allowing for a slight bend in your elbow (about 15-30 degrees) [1.7.3, 1.7.4].
- Safety: Always wear supportive, low-heeled shoes and be mindful of wet or uneven surfaces [1.7.2]. A physical therapist can teach you the correct gait for walking and navigating stairs safely [1.7.1].
Alternatives to Crutches
For some individuals, crutches may not be the best option due to balance issues, upper body weakness, or the nature of their injury. Alternatives include:
- Knee Scooters/Walkers: These wheeled devices allow you to rest the knee of your injured leg on a padded platform, offering stability and ease of movement for below-the-knee injuries [1.8.1, 1.8.3].
- Hands-Free Crutches (e.g., iWALK): These devices strap to your injured leg, allowing for hands-free mobility and the ability to navigate stairs more easily, though they require good balance and strength [1.8.1, 1.8.3].
- Wheelchairs: For those who cannot use crutches or scooters, a wheelchair provides a safe way to remain mobile during recovery [1.8.5].
Conclusion
How do you get prescribed crutches? The process begins with a crucial visit to a healthcare provider. A proper medical evaluation ensures that crutches are the right mobility aid for your specific injury and leads to a prescription that facilitates insurance coverage. From choosing between underarm and forearm models to deciding whether to rent or buy, each step is vital for a safe and effective recovery. Always prioritize a professional fitting and training to prevent further injury and regain your mobility with confidence.
For detailed instructions and visual guides on using mobility aids, consider visiting an authoritative source like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo).
