An artificial joint is often the first step back to an active, self -determined life. Whether hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis - after a joint replacement, the right support in everyday life is crucial. Forearm supports , colloquially also crutches , are indispensable companions.
They relieve the new joint, promote safe mobility and help to avoid complications. But: dealing with crutches must be learned!
In this blog article we show you everything you need to know - from selection to the right technology to everyday tips and psychological support.
Our goal: Your safe return to mobility - step by step.

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What are forearmic supports (crutches)?

Forearmic supports are mobility aids that help patients take weight from one or both legs as they move. They consist of:

• Griff: to hold and support.
• Cuff: surrounds the forearm for better control.
• Pipe: Connection between handle and ground contact.
• Rubber buffer: ensures slip resistance on the floor.

Crutches vs. forearmic support

The terms are often used synonymously in everyday life. Strictly speaking, "crutches" refers to all types of walking aids, while "forearm supports" are specifically those who involve the forearm.

Modern development

Today's forearm gaps are light, ergonomic and sometimes even shock -damping. Materials such as aluminum or carbon ensure high stability with low weight.

Why are forearmic supports are important according to the joint replacement?

No matter whether hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis : the new joint is still sensitive right after the operation. Forearm supports help:

• Reduce pressure: the weight is distributed evenly.
• Avoid luxation: particularly important for artificial hip joint.
• Improving coordination: You give security when walking.
• To rebuild muscles: through targeted training with crutches.

Important: Too early full load can endanger the result of the operation. Crutches are protection and training aid at the same time.

Selection of the right forearm gaps

material

• Aluminum: light and robust. Ideal for everyday life.
• Carbon: Extremely light, expensive, ideal for sporty active.
• Steel: very stable, but difficult. Rare today.

Grip

• Ergonomically shaped handles: relief hands and wrists.
• Soft handles: pleasant with long use.
• Standard handles: cheap, but less comfortable.

cuff

A closed or half -open cuff keeps the crutch safely on the arm.
Ideal: Half -open models - are easier to remove if necessary.

Correct setting of the crutches

Incorrectly set crutches lead to pain or fall.
  How to set them up:

• Grip height: When standing upright, the handles should be at the level of the wrists.
• Cuff: 2.5–5 cm under the elbow.
• Distance: Place crutches about 15 cm on the side of the body.

Tip: Let the attitude check by the specialist personnel or physiotherapist!

Why it is important to familiarize yourself with walking supports before the operation - preaching allocation for more success

Many patients only think about the use of forearm gears or crutches after surgery. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the safe handling
before the procedure This early training is part of a modern concept that calls itself to prehistory .

What does prehistribilitation mean?

Prähabilitation consists of "pre" (before) and "rehabilitation". It is therefore a targeted preparation for an upcoming operation - for example a hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis .
The aim is to tune the body and mind on the stress of the intervention in order to achieve better postoperative results

Why is prehemilitation so important?

• Faster learning: practices safe forearm support before the operation
• Less uncertainty: Fears and uncertainties in dealing with crutches can be deliberately dismantled before the operation.
• Better muscles: Prohes -based exercises strong muscles and improve the balance - a great advantage for rehabilitation.
• Reduced complications: Patients who can safely move with crutches plunge less frequently and optimally artificial joint
• Active participation: Patients take on an active role in their recovery through prehistration - this strengthens self -confidence and motivation.

What is part of the prehistory?

• Instruction in the correct use of crutches
• Walking training with simulation pollution
• Strengthening exercises for legs, arms and fuselage
• Equilibrium training
• Information on the preparation of the operation

👉 summarized: Anyone who starts the prehistory lies the foundation for faster and safer return to everyday life. This investment in your own health pays off twice, especially for hip prostheses and knee prostheses

First steps: the safe start with crutches

Preparation at home

• Remove stumbling blocks like carpets
• Change furniture to create more space
• Line the non -slip mats in the bathroom

Learn

• Put the crutches forward at the same time
• Put on a healthy leg
• Adjust the degree of stress to the medical requirement

Practice makes perfect! Train short distances and slowly increase.

Typical errors in the handling of forearm gaps - and how to avoid them

Error 1: False crutching height

Problem:
too high or too low crutches lead to incorrect postures and pain in the back, shoulders or wrists.

Solution:
The handles must be set at the level of the wrists if you stand upright. The cuff must not touch the elbow.

Error 2: Unsure of contact contact

Problem:
worn rubber buffers or smooth floors increase the risk of falling.

Solution:
Check the rubber buffers regularly and replace if necessary. Pay attention to non -slip footwear!

Error 3: overload

Problem:
Increasing the walking distance or strain too quickly harms the new joint.

Solution:
Follow your doctor's training plans or physiotherapists. Listen to body signals and pause in pain.

Error 4: Correct crutches incorrectly

Problem:
crutches slide away easily if they are improperly supported.

Solution:
Use crutchers or safe storage locations. Never put them loosely on the floor.

Stress according to the hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis - how much can I?

In most cases, full load after the operation is allowed in the endoprostheticum!

Load levels

• Full load: Immediate burden on the operated leg (mostly for cemented prostheses).
• Partial load: Only part of the body weight may work on the leg.
• Initially no burden: rarely in complicated operations or revisions.

How do I recognize what is right for me?

• After the operation, the final load is released!
• Physiotherapeutic accompaniment.
• Consider individual factors such as age, bone density and surgical technology.

Important: Modern P Rothes and Techniques often enable early full pollution!

Techniques for safe walking with forearm gaps

3-point gang

• Push both crutches.
• Move the operated leg forward.
• Pull in healthy leg.

Ideal for partial load.

4-point gear

• Move the left crutch and right leg.
• Move right crutches and left legs.

For higher stability, e.g. in older patients.

Stair climbing with crutches

Up:

• Healthy leg first.
• Pull the crutches and operated leg.

Down:

• Crutches and operated leg first.
• Pull in healthy leg.

Note:
"The good goes up, the bad goes down."

Safety in everyday life - this is how you master every situation

Floor coverings

• Fix carpet edges
• Use non -slip carpets

bathroom

• Install handle handles
• Use shower stools
• Lay out non -slip mats

Kitchen

• Place everything important at the reachable height
• Use trolleys for transport

Tips for everyday life with crutches

• backpack or shoulder bag to have your hands free.
• ergonomic crutches to protect wrists.
• crutch cushions for more comfort.
• Break: Regular breaks help to avoid overload.

Forearm supports and rehab - they optimally support their recovery

Crutches in the early phase of rehabilitation

After an operation, e.g. B. when implanting a hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis , crutches help:

• To relieve the new joint.
• Slowly get used to the movement of the muscles and tendons.
• Avoid injuries and complications such as luxations.

Goal:
Learn to walk safe early to regain mobility and independence.

Training with physiotherapy

Under the guidance of a therapist, patients learn:

• Correct going: step by step rebuilt stress.
• Balance and coordination: Special exercises improve stability.
• Muscle strength: Targeted training protects the artificial joint in the long term.

When can the crutches be left out?

That depends on:

• Type of implant (e.g. a short sector → often faster load structure possible)
• Healing
• Muscle strength
• Stability when walking

Typical rule of thumb:
use crutches for at least 4–6 weeks, sometimes shorter with optimal course.

FAQ - frequent questions about forearmic supports

How long do I have to use crutches?

Answer: Depending on the operation and healing course between 4–8 weeks.

Can I drive with crutches?

Answer: As soon as you can act safely without crutches and the mobility is sufficient - please obtain medical approval beforehand!

What to do in the event of pain in the wrists?

Answer: Use ergonomic handles and, if necessary, try out crutches with suspension.

Are crutches available on a prescription?

Answer: Yes, the doctor can issue a recipe. The health insurance usually pays the costs.

Conclusion: Safe mobile with forearm gaps according to joint replacement

Forearm supports, after an operation with a hip prosthesis (hip-tep) , knee prosthesis (knee-tep) or another artificial joint, indispensable companions. Not only do they help to control the stress onto the new joint, but also promote safe and fast rehabilitation.
With the right technique, an optimal adjustment of the crutches and targeted training, every patient can quickly regain their mobility.

Important:

• Pay attention to high -quality crutches.
• Use accessories such as reflectors or rubber buffers.
• Practice the right thing with physiotherapists at an early stage.
• See forearm support as a sign of your recovery, not as an obstacle.

With patience, exercise and the right attitude, nothing stands in the way of an active and self -determined life after joint replacement!