Crutches Australia — Underarm vs Forearm Crutches Explained
Crutches Australia — Underarm vs Forearm Crutches Explained
Crutches allow partial or non-weight-bearing walking after injury or surgery. The two main types — underarm (axillary) crutches and forearm (elbow) crutches — suit different situations. This guide explains the difference and when each is appropriate.
Crutches at CareAid
Underarm crutches
- The padded top rests in the armpit (but weight should be through the hands, NOT the armpit — armpit pressure causes nerve damage)
- Height-adjustable at both the overall height and the hand grip
- Better for short-term use and complete non-weight bearing
- Easier to learn; more familiar
- Not suitable for long-term daily use — can cause axillary nerve damage with prolonged use
Forearm (elbow) crutches
- Cuff goes around the forearm; grip is below the cuff
- The user's body weight is supported through the forearms and hands
- Preferred for long-term and permanent use — much less upper limb damage risk
- More stable for experienced users; takes longer to learn gait
- Available as standard or ergonomic cuff
Comparison
| Underarm crutches | Forearm crutches | |
|---|---|---|
| Best use case | Short-term post-surgery | Long-term or permanent use |
| Learning time | Quick | Longer |
| Stairs | Possible but harder | Easier with experience |
| Upper body fatigue | Higher long-term | Lower long-term |
| Nerve injury risk | Yes if used incorrectly | No |
Sizing crutches
Underarm: Stand upright with shoes on. The top pad should be 3–5cm (2–3 fingers) below the armpit. Elbow should be at approximately 15–30° when holding the grip.
Forearm: The cuff should sit 2–3cm below the elbow. Grip height: elbow at 15–30° when standing.
NDIS funding
Crutches are Low Cost AT items. Eligible under NDIS and Home Care Packages without prior approval in most cases.
Buying with NDIS, Home Care or DVA?
Self-managed & plan-managed participants can buy directly from us — no registered provider needed. Same-day quotes, compliant tax invoices, GST-free where eligible.
Request a same-day quote →NDIS & funding questions
Can I buy crutches with my NDIS funding?
Yes. Self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants can buy directly from CareAid Supplies — you do not need a registered provider. Agency-managed participants must use a registered provider. We issue a compliant tax invoice for fast plan-manager payment.
Do I need an occupational therapist assessment?
For low-cost assistive technology (generally under $1,500) you usually do not. Mid-cost items may need written advice from an OT. Ask us and we’ll advise — or request a quote and we’ll guide you.
Are these items GST-free?
Many mobility, bathroom and daily-living aids are GST-free medical aids under Schedule 3 of the GST Act when designed for people with an illness or disability. We show the correct GST on your invoice.