How to Fit and Size Underarm Crutches Correctly

To fit underarm crutches: stand tall in your everyday shoes, set the top pad about two inches below your armpit, and set the hand grip at hip or wrist level so your elbow bends about 15 to 30 degrees. Correct fit is what lets you carry your weight on your hands instead of your armpits. This is general guidance, not medical advice, so follow the instructions from your doctor or physical therapist.

Step 1: Pick the right height band

Underarm crutches come in height bands, usually youth, adult, and tall. Each band covers a range of user heights and a weight capacity, so the first step is choosing the band that includes your height rather than buying the only size on the shelf. Check the listed ranges before you commit. Our best underarm crutches roundup lists the height and weight ranges side by side, and the quiz can point you to the right band.

Step 2: Set the underarm pad

Wear the shoes you will actually walk in, since heel height shifts the numbers, and stand up straight. Place the crutch tip on the floor a few inches out to the side of your foot. Adjust the overall length so the top pad sits about two inches below your armpit. Two finger-widths is the quick check. That gap is intentional: it keeps the pad off the nerves and blood vessels in your armpit and reminds you to bear weight through your hands.

Step 3: Set the hand grip

Let your arm hang loose at your side. Set the grip level with your hip bone, or with the crease of your wrist, whichever you find easier to feel. When you then wrap your hand around it, your elbow should bend roughly 15 to 30 degrees. That slight bend gives your arm the leverage to push down and lift your body forward. Too straight and you cannot push off, too bent and your shoulders take the strain.

Step 4: Lock the adjusters

Most underarm crutches adjust two ways:

• Push-button: spring-loaded buttons pop through holes in the tubing. Squeeze, slide to the height you want, and let the button click fully into the hole on both sides. The Drive Medical aluminum crutches use this style, which is quick and tool-free.
• Wing nut: a threaded bolt and wing nut clamp the tube at the chosen length. Hand-tighten firmly, and recheck it after a day or two of use.

Whichever you have, set both crutches to the same height, then lean lightly on the grips to confirm nothing slips.

A comfortable fit beats a barely-okay one

Even a well-sized crutch can rub if the padding is thin. If you expect long days on your feet, a pair with extra underarm and grip cushioning, like the Vive Health crutches, takes pressure off your hands and ribs. Fit first, comfort second, and you will be set.