Do you think that this is a good idea?

[peemagg]

I need all of your expert opinions. I have RSD now in both feet and was thinking of upgrading (or downgrading depending on your view) to forearm crutches instead of just a cane. What I am trying to do is be able to walk more than I can now with as little pain as possible. I was thinking that these might just give me the support I need to be able to walk.

I was wondering if all of you with your mobility device expertise think these would be able to do what I want? Any and all responses appreciated.

 

[KPeveler]

I used forearm crutches before my arms got too bad to use them. I found they helped me more than a cane did, but I do not have RSD, so I cannot say how it would affect that.

I got my crutches on ebay for about $30, so not too expensive. If you need them a lot, I would get ones fitted for you and have insurance pay for it. My insurance would not have paid, so I got them online.

 

[Piper]

I use 1 forearm crutch instead of a cane. I like the way it frees my hand up (and I don't drop it all the time!)

 

[Momelie]

Oooh! Really???

Tell me more!!!! The newest problem I'm having right now is peripheral neuropathy is starting to rear its ugly head bilaterally, and I'm beginning to lose my balance and drop the darn cane! And I never know which foot is going to start tingling and go numb, LOL! DH is starting to look at me and ask for a precinct number.

Do the forearm crutches not come off? Do they help with balance issues? My original need for a cane was for auto-immune arthritis, so gripping a cane was always a literal PIT(hand), so I'd love to eliminate that - but where would I put them on a scooter? I kind of shove the cane between my legs or by the handle bar. Or the Helly Hansen backpacks they sell in the Norway shop have a perfect pocket for the collapsible canes. Don't think the crutches would fit, huh?

 

[peemagg]

Forearm crutches have a cuff that goes around your arm just below the elbow. You put your arm threw the cuff and then there is a handle to hang onto. If you get the American version then it is a closed cuff, that when you let go of the handle, the crutch is still held on by the cuff. There is also a European version that has a open cuff. That one would not stay on if you let go.

It might help with balance as long as you use both crutches, at least more than a single cane.

The reason I am thinking of them is because I can use them with different gaits. I'm thinking that maybe with the ability to switch things up a bit, I could be able to go farther and longer than I can now. I went to Walmart today with my cane and was whooped after a short time, but then again only one way to walk. I guess maybe I should go up to a medical supply store and see what they have to think about it too.

I can get them covered by insurance with no issues as long as I have a prescription that I can easily get from my Ortho doctor. His comment to me was that he would do whatever he could to help me with these issues. So far he has been great about making sure that I get what I need. My car insurance has to pay for all that happens with this foot, because of a auto accident.

 

[lovetoscrap]

Someone else that I know with RSD uses two "boots"-- I think they are similar to the Cam Walker that I have used for my foot issues. I think hers are actually air casts so they fit snugly. While it it is a bit unconventional to wear two at the same time, if it helps you walk then I am all for it. On the really horrible days when both of my feet hurt I wear two Cam Walkers around the house and it does help with pain and balance.

Have you been to the But You Don't Look Sick forums? There is a board for those with neurological diseases and many posters with RSD. You may be able to get some advice from those that have been there, done that.

 

[peemagg]

Thank-you all for your help.

I went today to our local medical supply and tried them there. There was such a difference in the pain levels immediately, that I just went ahead and bought them. I think they are really going to be of help. I will give them a good workout on Wednesday when I go to the mall with my family.