Crutches

Helping Hand crutches are designed and made in Britain for adults and children who need reliable walking support — after surgery or injury, or while living with a long-term condition. As a British manufacturer rather than a reseller, we build every crutch to be lightweight, fully adjustable and comfortable for everyday use, with non-slip ferrules and hand-friendly grips that reduce strain on the wrists and palms. Most customers qualify for VAT relief, and UK delivery is free on orders over £15.

Types of crutches

Almost all crutches used in the UK today are elbow crutches (also called forearm crutches) — they have a cuff that supports your forearm and a hand grip you take your weight through. They suit both short-term recovery and long-term daily use, and they are what we make. Underarm (axillary) crutches that tuck under the armpit are mainly used very briefly in hospital.

• Single-adjustable crutches adjust for height at the leg — simple, light and economical.
• Double-adjustable crutches adjust at both the leg and the handle, so the forearm cuff and grip can be set independently for a precise fit. Best for longer-term use or anyone needing extra adjustment.
• Ergonomic and soft-grip handles spread pressure across a wider area of the hand to ease wrist and palm strain — worth choosing for longer-term use or for anyone with arthritis or a weaker grip.
• Forearm crutches with a contoured cuff give extra support through the forearm.
• Children's crutches use smaller, lighter frames sized for younger users.

How to size your crutches

Elbow crutches are easy to fit at home. Stand upright in your normal shoes with your arms relaxed by your sides:

• Set the hand grip level with the crease of your wrist — when you hold it, your elbow should be bent very slightly, about 15–30 degrees.
• Set the forearm cuff so it sits roughly 2.5cm (1 inch) below your elbow — snug but not tight.
• When standing, the crutch tip should rest about 15cm (6 inches) out to the side of your foot.

If you are recovering from surgery, your physiotherapist or occupational therapist can confirm the right height and walking technique for you. For step-by-step help, read our guide on how to use crutches — fitting, walking, stairs and staying safe.

Our crutches range

Adult elbow crutches

• Double Adjustable Crutches – Ergonomic Handle — adjust at leg and handle, with a pressure-spreading grip. Sold as a pair.
• Adjustable Elbow Crutch – Soft PVC Handle — 160kg capacity, latex-free, sold as a single. Four sizes.

Forearm crutches

• Double Adjustable Lightweight Forearm Crutches — extra forearm support, available as a pair or single.

Children's crutches

• Children's Elbow Crutches – Adjustable Pair — lightweight and easy for children to use independently.

Frequently asked questions

Elbow crutches or underarm crutches — what is the difference? Elbow (forearm) crutches support your forearm through a cuff and suit most people, short or long term. Underarm crutches tuck under the armpit and are mainly used briefly in hospital. We make elbow and forearm crutches.

Are crutches sold in pairs or singly? It varies by model — some are supplied as a pair, others individually so you can buy one or two. Each product page says which.

How much weight can they take? Capacities are listed on each product page — for example, our Adjustable Elbow Crutch supports up to 160kg. If you need a higher capacity, call us and we will point you to the right model.

Can I buy crutches VAT-free? Yes — if you are disabled or have a long-term illness you can usually buy VAT-free by completing the short declaration at checkout.

You will find crutches alongside our wider mobility aids range, including walking sticks, walking frames and rollators. Not sure which crutches are right? Call our UK team on 01531 635678 or email shop@helping-hand.com — we have been making mobility aids in Britain since 1965.