Medline Basic Adult Aluminum Crutches, MDS51514-10

Medline Basic Aluminum Crutches, item MDS51514-10, are underarm crutches in the standard adult size, for a person keeping weight off one leg while it heals.

What does it do and how does it work?

They carry the injured leg's share of your weight through your hands and forearms, with one crutch under each arm.

• The aluminum frame has a double extruded centre tube, so the pair stays light to lift and carry.
• Two adjustments set each crutch: the shaft for overall height and the hand grip on its own.
• The underarm pads, hand grips and rubber tips come fitted, and the pads and grips are latex-free.
• Weight capacity is 250 lb (113 kg).

Who is it for, and who should choose something else?

They suit an adult between 5 ft 2 in and 5 ft 10 in (157 to 178 cm) tall who can use both arms.

• An economical pair for the weeks after a leg or foot injury.
• Choose a knee walker if the person cannot use both arms or wants both hands free, because it takes weight on the shin.
• Choose another size outside that height range.

Will it fit?

Fit depends on height and on setting both crutches level.

• The shaft adjusts from 44.5 to 52.5 in (113 to 133 cm).
• With the user standing straight, the underarm pad sits 2 to 3 in (5 to 8 cm) below the armpit and never touches it.
• The hand grip goes at wrist height with the elbow slightly bent, and both crutches are set the same.

Using it day to day

Keep your weight on your hands, not under your arms.

• The underarm pads guide the crutches and should stay clear of the armpits.
• The crutches do not fold, so they travel laid across a back seat.
• Replace a rubber tip before its tread goes smooth.
• Your therapist sets the weight the leg may take and shows you stairs with a rail.

What does it work with, and what are its limits?

They are a walking aid for one person, not a transfer or standing support.

• A user above 250 lb (113 kg) needs a bariatric crutch; this model is not rated for that.
• Do not stand or lean on the underarm pads; the hands carry the load.
• They need reasonable balance and arm strength, so they are not for someone who cannot use both hands.

How does it compare?

• The Economy Folding Knee Walker frees both hands and folds, but it is wider in a doorway and awkward on stairs.
• EZee Life junior aluminum crutches are the same underarm style in a shorter size.

See our walking aids for the full range.

Funding may help: see who may help pay.