How much do crutches cost?
The basic model of forearm crutches is about 20 €. Additional aids are available for an additional charge. For example, crutches with ergonomic handles usually cost between 25 and 30 €.
Accessories such as grip pads can be purchased from 5 €, spikes cost about 10 €. Particularly unusual models such as foldable crutches are somewhat more expensive. Also special lengths like especially large or small crutches usually cost a little more.
Crutches that are intended to carry a particularly high body weight must be made of a more stable material and are therefore also more expensive than the standard model. As soon as the indication for forearm crutches is given, the health insurance company is obliged to cover the costs. Only 10% of the original price must be paid privately.
However, the costs must not be more than 10 € and not less than 5 €. In addition, there may be prescription and delivery charges if the crutches have to be delivered to your home. Special requests such as extra accessories must usually also be paid privately. Unless there is a sufficient medically justifiable indication.
How do I learn to walk with crutches?
Walking with forearm crutches must be practiced sufficiently, as this is the only way to provide reliable relief for the affected leg and additional stability. First of all, walking is practiced on level ground under the supervision of a physiotherapist.A distinction must be made between complete relief, partial weight bearing and full weight bearing of the affected leg. In addition, there are different gaits, which are called two-, three- or four-point gait. If the gait is safe on level ground, then walking up and down stairs must also be trained with physiotherapeutic help.
Who needs underarm supports?
Armpit supports are used when an affected person not only wants to relieve the legs but also needs to protect the arms and hands. Armpit supports must be used especially in cases of broken bones and joint damage to the arm. One indication would be, for example, a fall in which both a leg and an arm are injured (e.g. by absorbing the fall). Joint diseases such as rheumatism can also make the use of underarm supports necessary.
