Walking aids

Axillary crutches

Draft — clinical review required

Crutches that reach under the arms, allowing substantial unloading of one leg.

Three-point pattern (non-weight-bearing)Illustrative example — prescribed sequence, not a model prediction
Involved limb
Right
Device
Axillary crutches
Device side(s)
Both
Weight-bearing
Non-weight-bearing on the right — as prescribed
LRforward ↑

Start position. Press play or choose a step.

0/4

Highlighted items moved in this step. Coloured foot = involved limb. Guard on the involved side and supervise until safe. Weight-bearing must follow the actual prescription.

Three-point pattern with step-to (partial weight-bearing)Illustrative example — prescribed sequence, not a model prediction
Involved limb
Right
Device
Axillary crutches
Device side(s)
Both
Weight-bearing
Partial weight-bearing on the right — amount as prescribed
LRforward ↑

Start position. Press play or choose a step.

0/4

Highlighted items moved in this step. Coloured foot = involved limb. Guard on the involved side and supervise until safe. Weight-bearing must follow the actual prescription.

Go deeper

Open each part when you are ready.

Purpose and broad suitability
  • Short-term use when weight-bearing is restricted on one leg.
Fitting principles
  • Top about two to three finger-widths below the axilla.
  • Hand grips at wrist-crease level; elbows slightly flexed.
  • Weight taken through the hands, not the armpits.
Required balance, coordination and upper-limb capacity
  • Good upper-limb strength, balance and coordination.
Walking sequence
  • Pattern depends on weight-bearing status: three-point for NWB/PWB, four-point or two-point for greater stability with bilateral involvement.
Turning
  • Turn toward the uninvolved side with small steps of the crutches.
Sitting down and standing up
  • Hold both crutches in the hand on the involved side to stand or sit, using the other hand on the chair.
Common errors and safety
  • Leaning on the axillary pads (nerve compression risk).
  • Crutches too far ahead.
  • Incorrect height.
  • Guard on the involved side (or as appropriate) and provide supervision until safe.
Device-specific limitations
  • Higher energy cost; axillary pressure risk.

Apply it

Where should weight be taken on axillary crutches?

Open the Movement LabWalking-aid sequences are shown in the step demonstration above; the Movement Lab does not include devices.

Sources and review status

Draft — clinical review required

Starting points for verification. Validated protocols are linked where available; clinical content has not yet been reviewed.

Learning objectives
  • Explain the purpose and broad suitability of a axillary crutches.
  • Describe fitting principles and the walking sequence.
  • Identify common errors and safety considerations.
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