An artificial joint is often the first step back to an active, independent life. Whether it's a hip replacement or knee replacement – after joint replacement, the right support in everyday life is crucial. Forearm crutches, also commonly referred to as crutches , are indispensable companions.
They relieve the new joint, promote safe mobility, and help avoid complications. However, using crutches requires practice!
In this blog post, we will show you everything you need to know – from selection to the right technique and everyday tips to psychological support.
Our goal: Your safe return to mobility – step by step.

Please supplement reading this text with   viewing the corresponding videos (click e.g.   here).

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What are forearm crutches (crutches)?

Forearm crutches are mobility aids that help patients take weight off one or both legs while moving. They consist of:

• Handle: For holding and supporting.
• Cuff: Encloses the forearm for better control.
• Tube: Connection between handle and ground contact.
• Rubber tips: Ensure non-slip on the floor.

Crutches vs. Forearm Crutches

In everyday life, the terms are often used synonymously. Strictly speaking, "crutches" refer to all types of walking aids, while "forearm supports" specifically refer to those that involve the forearm.

Modern development

Modern forearm crutches are lightweight, ergonomic, and sometimes even shock-absorbing. Materials like aluminum or carbon ensure high stability with low weight.

Why are forearm crutches important after joint replacement?

Whether it's a hip replacement or knee replacement

• Reducing pressure: The weight is evenly distributed.
• Avoiding dislocations: Especially important for artificial hip joints.
• Improving coordination: They provide security while walking.
• Rebuilding Musculature: Through targeted training with crutches.

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

Selecting the Right Forearm Crutches

Material

• Aluminum: Lightweight and robust. Ideal for everyday use.
• Carbon: Extremely light, expensive, ideal for athletic individuals.
• Steel: Very stable, but heavy. Rarely used today.

Handle types

• Ergonomically shaped handles: Relieve hands and wrists.
• Soft grips: Particularly comfortable for long-term use.
• Standard grips: Affordable, but less comfortable.

Cuff

A closed or semi-open cuff holds the crutch securely on the arm.
Ideal: Semi-open models – can be easily removed when needed.

Correct Adjustment of Crutches

Incorrectly adjusted crutches lead to pain or falls.
  This is how you adjust them correctly:

• Handle Height: When standing upright, the hand grips should be at the level of the wrists.
• Cuff: 2.5–5 cm below the elbow.
• Distance: Place crutches about 15 cm to the side of the body.

Tip: Have the settings checked by a specialist or physiotherapist!

Why it is important to familiarize yourself with walking aids before surgery - Prehabilitation for more success

Many patients only think about using forearm supports or crutches after surgery. However, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with safe handling before the procedure .
This early training is part of a modern concept called prehabilitation .

What does Prehabilitation mean?

Prehabilitation is a combination of "pre" (before) and "rehabilitation". It is therefore a targeted preparation for an upcoming surgery – for example, a hip replacement or knee replacement.
The goal is to attune the body and mind to the stresses of the intervention in order to achieve better postoperative results .

Why is Prehabilitation so important?

• Faster learning: Those who practice using forearm supports safely before surgery will be mobile faster after the procedure.
• Less Uncertainty: Fears and uncertainties when using crutches can be specifically reduced before surgery.
• Better Musculature: Prehabilitative exercises strengthen muscles and improve balance – a significant advantage for rehabilitation.
• Reduced Complications: Patients who can move safely with crutches are less likely to fall and optimally load their new artificial joint .
• Active Participation: Through prehabilitation, patients take an active role in their recovery – this strengthens self-confidence and motivation.

What is included in prehabilitation?

• Instruction in the correct use of crutches
• Gait training with simulated load
• Strengthening exercises for legs, arms, and torso
• Balance training
• Information on preparation for surgery

👉 In summary: Those who start prehabilitation early lay the foundation for a faster and safer return to daily life. Especially with hip replacements and knee replacements , this investment in one's own health pays off doubly.

First steps: The safe start with crutches

Home preparation

• Remove tripping hazards like carpets
• Rearrange furniture to create more space
• Lay out non-slip mats in the bathroom

Learning to walk

• Move crutches forward simultaneously
• Swing through with the healthy leg
• Adjust the load level according to the doctor's instructions

Practice makes perfect! Train on short distances and gradually increase.

Typical errors when handling forearm crutches – and how to avoid them

Error 1: Incorrect crutch height

Problem:
Crutches that are too high or too low lead to poor posture and pain in the back, shoulders or wrists.

Solution:
The hand grips must be adjusted to the level of the wrists when standing upright. The cuff must not touch the elbow.

Error 2: Uncertain ground contact

Problem:
Worn-out rubber buffers or smooth floors increase the risk of falling.

Solution:
Regularly check the rubber buffers and replace them if necessary. Pay attention to non-slip footwear!

Error 3: Overload

Problem:
Too rapid an increase in walking distance or load damages the new joint.

Solution:
Follow your doctor's or physiotherapist's training plans. Listen to your body signals and pause when you experience pain.

Error 4: Crutches incorrectly placed

Problem:
Crutches can easily slip away if not properly supported.

Solution:
Use crutch holders or secure storage places. Never place them loosely on the floor.

Load after hip replacement or knee replacement – How much am I allowed?

In ENDOPROTHETICUM, full weight-bearing is allowed in most cases after the operation!

Load levels

• Full weight-bearing: Immediate loading of the operated leg (usually with cemented prostheses).
• Partial weight-bearing: Only a part of the body weight should act on the leg.
• No initial load: Rarely used in complicated surgeries or revisions.

How do I know what's right for me?

• After the operation, the final load clearance takes place!
• Physiotherapeutic support.
• Consider individual factors such as age, bone density and surgical technique.

Important: Modern prostheses and techniques often enable early full weight-bearing!

Techniques for safe walking with forearm crutches

3-point gait

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

Ideal for partial weight-bearing.

4-point gait

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

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

Climbing stairs with crutches

Up:

• Healthy leg first.
• Crutches and operated leg follow.

Down:

• Crutches and operated leg first.
• Pull the healthy leg along.

Memorable phrase:
"The good goes up, the bad goes down."

Safety in everyday life – Mastering every situation

Floor coverings

• Secure carpet edges
• Use non-slip carpets

Bathroom

• Install handrails
• Use a shower stool
• Lay out non-slip mats

Kitchen

• Place everything important at a reachable height
• Use a trolley for transportation

Tips for everyday life with crutches

• Use a backpack or shoulder bag to keep your hands free.
• Use ergonomic crutches to spare your wrists.
• Install crutch cushions for more comfort.
• Take a break: Regular sitting breaks help avoid overloading.

Forearm crutches and rehabilitation – How they support your recovery optimally

Crutches in the early phase of rehabilitation

After surgery, e.g., when implanting a hip replacement or knee replacement, crutches help with:

• Relieve the new joint.
• Gradually accustom muscles and tendons to movement.
• To avoid injuries and complications like dislocations.

Goal:
Learn to walk safely early on to regain mobility and independence.

Training with physiotherapy

Under the guidance of a therapist, patients learn:

• Correct walking: Gradually build up load step by step.
• Balance and coordination: Special exercises improve stability.
• Muscle strengthening: Targeted training protects the artificial joint in the long term.

When can crutches be dispensed with?

This depends on:

• Type of implant (e.g. short stem prosthesis → often faster load build-up possible)
• Healing process
• Muscle strength
• Stability while walking

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

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about forearm crutches

How long do I have to use crutches?

Answer: Depending on the surgery and healing process, between 4–8 weeks.

Can I drive a car with crutches?

Answer: As soon as you can step on without crutches and have enough mobility – please obtain a doctor's approval beforehand!

What to do with wrist pain?

Answer: Use ergonomic grips and try crutches with shock absorption if necessary.

Are crutches available on prescription?

Answer: Yes, the doctor can issue a prescription. The health insurance usually covers the costs.

Conclusion: Safe mobility with forearm crutches after joint replacement

Forearm crutches are indispensable companions after surgery with a hip prosthesis (hip TEP), knee prosthesis (knee TEP) or another artificial joint . They not only help to control the stress on the new joint, but also promote a safe and quick rehabilitation.
With the right technique, optimal adjustment of the crutches, and targeted training, every patient can quickly regain their mobility.

Important:

• Use high-quality crutches.
• Use accessories like reflectors or rubber buffers.
• Practice proper walking early on with physiotherapists.
• See forearm crutches as a sign of your recovery, not as an obstacle.

With patience, practice, and the right adjustment, there is nothing to stop an active and self-determined life after joint replacement