How to Fit Underarm Crutches: Height, Handgrip, and Safety Checks

Underarm crutches can look straightforward, but correct fit depends on more than choosing a size label or matching the crutch height to a person's overall height.

The underarm pad position, handgrip height, left and right adjustment settings, rubber tips, footwear, posture, and the user's ability to control both crutches all matter. A pair that is too tall, too short, unevenly adjusted, or incorrectly positioned can make walking more difficult rather than more supportive.

This guide explains the main fit and equipment checks to review before using underarm crutches. It is not individualized gait training. Anyone recovering from surgery or injury, experiencing pain or weakness, or uncertain about walking technique should receive fitting and training from a qualified healthcare professional or physical therapist.

The short version

Before using underarm crutches:

• Choose the correct crutch size range rather than relying only on user height.
• Wear the footwear that will normally be used while walking.
• Check the space between the underarm and the top pad.
• Adjust the handgrips so the arms can control the crutches without locking the elbows.
• Set both crutches to matching overall heights.
• Confirm every adjustment button is fully engaged.
• Inspect both rubber tips before use.
• Do not support body weight through the underarm pads.
• Use only on surfaces permitted by the product instructions.
• Obtain professional fitting and gait training when available.

1. Start with the correct crutch size range

One of the easiest mistakes is treating a crutch size label as if it directly describes the user's height.

It usually does not.

A published crutch-height range describes the adjustable dimensions of the product itself. The final setting must still account for the user's:

• Body proportions.
• Arm length.
• Shoulder position.
• Footwear.
• Posture.
• Handgrip position.
• Recommended walking pattern.

Two people of the same overall height may therefore require different settings.

If the intended user falls near the edge of a size range or the fit looks unusual even when the dimensions appear correct, request professional fitting rather than forcing the product to work.

2. Fit the crutches while wearing normal footwear

Shoe height changes the user's standing position relative to the crutches.

Fit should therefore be checked while wearing the footwear normally used with the crutches.

Switching from thin indoor shoes to thicker walking shoes can change how the pads and handgrips align with the body.

After a meaningful footwear change, recheck the complete fit rather than assuming the previous adjustment remains correct.

3. Leave appropriate space below the underarm

The top pad should not be jammed directly into the armpit.

Underarm crutches are controlled through the hands and arms. The top pad helps position the crutch alongside the body, but it should not become the primary weight-bearing point.

Excessive pressure in the underarm area can be uncomfortable and may compress sensitive structures.

The exact fitting position should be confirmed through professional instruction, especially for a new user.

4. Adjust the handgrips separately from the overall crutch height

Overall crutch height and handgrip height are two different adjustments.

A pair of crutches can appear correct at the top and still have handgrips positioned too high or too low.

The handgrips should allow the user to maintain controlled arm position rather than forcing completely straight elbows or excessive bending.

When adjusting the handgrips:

• Use matching positions on the left and right crutch.
• Install the hardware exactly as intended.
• Confirm all fasteners are secure.
• Do not improvise a new hole or mounting position.

Final handgrip placement should be verified by the professional responsible for the user's gait training when applicable.

5. Keep both crutches adjusted evenly

A matched pair should normally be adjusted symmetrically unless a qualified professional has provided a specific reason for another setup.

Compare the adjustment holes on both crutches before use.

Check that:

• The overall height settings match.
• The handgrip settings match.
• Every push button is fully visible through the intended hole.
• No shaft section is twisted or partially inserted.
• The left and right rubber tips are fully seated.

Do not rely on visual height alone. Count or compare the actual adjustment positions.

6. Make sure every adjustment button is fully engaged

Height-adjustable crutches depend on their locking points.

A button that is only partly visible through an adjustment hole should not be treated as locked.

Before use:

• Check every height-adjustment button.
• Confirm it extends fully through the selected hole.
• Look for damaged or enlarged adjustment holes.
• Check for unexpected movement between telescoping sections.

If an adjustment button sticks, fails to emerge completely, or moves back inside the tube during a light inspection, stop using the crutch until the problem is resolved.

7. Inspect the underarm pads and handgrips

Padding affects comfort, but it also needs to remain securely attached.

Inspect both underarm pads for:

• Tears.
• Loose material.
• Compression or deformation.
• Unexpected movement on the frame.

Check the handgrips for:

• Secure attachment.
• Cracking or deterioration.
• Rotation that should not occur.
• Damaged mounting hardware.

A soft pad or comfortable grip cannot compensate for a poorly fitted or damaged crutch.

8. Check both rubber tips before every use

The rubber tips are the main floor-contact components of underarm crutches.

They should be inspected frequently because wear directly affects how the crutch contacts the surface.

Look for:

• Uneven wear.
• Splitting.
• Hardening.
• Missing tread.
• A loose fit on the shaft.
• Material embedded in the bottom surface.

Replace worn tips only with parts verified for the exact crutch model and shaft size.

Do not wait until a tip is completely worn through before replacing it.

9. Do not place body weight through the underarms

One of the most important concepts in underarm-crutch use is that the hands and arms control the support.

The underarm pads should not be used as shelves for the body's weight.

If the user feels that substantial pressure through the underarms is necessary to remain upright, the fit, technique, or mobility-aid category should be reassessed.

This is also why professional instruction matters. Crutch height alone cannot teach a safe walking pattern.

10. Separate product fit from gait technique

Correctly adjusted equipment is only one part of successful crutch use.

The correct sequence for moving the crutches and legs depends on factors such as:

• The injured or affected side.
• Whether weight bearing is permitted.
• The user's strength and balance.
• The healthcare provider's recovery plan.
• The type of gait pattern prescribed.

A generic internet article cannot safely determine those factors for an individual.

Use written product instructions to assemble and inspect the crutches, and use qualified professional guidance for individual gait training.

11. Check the walking environment

Even well-fitted crutches depend on predictable floor contact.

Before walking, inspect the route for:

• Wet flooring.
• Loose rugs.
• Cords.
• Clutter.
• Soft or unstable ground.
• Loose gravel.
• Ice or snow.
• Unexpected steps or level changes.

Do not assume that rubber tips make every surface suitable.

Follow the exact product's stated surface limitations and avoid conditions where the tips cannot make secure, predictable contact.

12. Recheck fit when something changes

Crutch settings should not be treated as permanent simply because they worked previously.

Recheck the fit after:

• A change in footwear.
• Replacement of a shaft or adjustment component.
• Replacement of rubber tips.
• Visible wear or damage.
• A significant change in posture or mobility.
• A new stage of recovery.
• A recommendation from a healthcare professional.

If walking feels meaningfully different, do not immediately assume the user simply needs more practice. Inspect the equipment and reassess the fit.

Frequently asked questions

Should underarm crutches touch the armpits?

The pads should be positioned below the underarms rather than pressed tightly into them. Exact spacing and final fit should be confirmed through professional fitting.

Can I choose crutch size from my height alone?

No. User height can help identify a starting size category, but correct fit also depends on body proportions, footwear, underarm clearance, handgrip position, and individual needs.

Should both crutches be the same height?

A matched pair is generally adjusted evenly unless a qualified professional has specifically instructed otherwise. Compare both overall-height and handgrip settings.

How do I know if a rubber tip needs replacement?

Replace a tip when its tread, shape, fit, material condition, or grip has deteriorated according to the product instructions. Do not wait until it fails completely.

Can I use underarm crutches on wet floors?

Wet and slippery surfaces can reduce reliable tip contact. Follow the exact product instructions and avoid surfaces the manufacturer identifies as unsuitable.

Can I learn to use crutches from an online article?

An article can explain product features and inspection points, but individual gait technique should be taught or confirmed by a qualified healthcare professional or physical therapist.

Fit the person and the equipment together

Choosing the correct size is only the beginning. A useful underarm-crutch setup requires appropriate overall height, correct handgrip position, matching left and right adjustments, intact pads and tips, secure locking points, appropriate footwear, and a walking pattern suited to the individual.

Do not accept a setup that feels wrong simply because the size label appears correct.

For model-specific product information, review the current DeepTireh underarm crutch instructions and visit the DeepTireh Support Center when additional product assistance is needed.