Crutches are medicine equipment needed by those who need aid in mobility, specifically those who have injuries in the lower extremities. These injuries range from short-term injuries to lifelong disabilities. Traditionally, crutches are made from wood. Most crutches today, though, are made of metal and are easily adjustable based on the patient’s needs. With these variations, crutches cost will greatly vary.
Average Cost of Crutches
- On average, crutches cost range from $15 to as much as $200. Basic axillary crutches made of wood and aluminum will cost $15 to $40. For more deluxe metal forearm crutches and folding form, crutches cost will range from $40 to $100. A top-of-the-line hands-free crutch will cost as much as $450.
- Crutches price also depends on the branding. For example, the average cost of crutches made by Graham Field, a well-known brand of, sells their highly popular aluminum crutches for around $25.
- Another well-known brand, Walgreens, offer the Smart Crutchforearm crutch designed for adults for $120. A set of 2 junior standers millennial crutches cost $117. If you only need one quality crutch, a single Medline Quick-Fit Crutch is sold for $45 only.
Insurance
- If you are covered by health insurance, you need not worry about the crutches price. Usually, basic crutches are included in health insurance coverage. Though, high-end and premium crutches are not covered by health insurance unless the patient is unable to use a walker or basic crutches.
- With coverage from a health insurance, the average cost of crutches will consist of a coinsurance or a copy for durable medical goods ranging from $5 up to as much as $100, depending on the type of crutches.
Inclusions When Buying Crutches
- Depending on the patient’s preference, crutches come either in singles or in pairs like underarm crutches.
- Underarm crutches sometimes referred to as axillary crutches, are usually made of wood or metal. These crutches have a pad that is made of a soft material (commonly rubber) that fits under the armpit. Handgrips will be found halfway down and rubber tips are on the bottom to prevent skids.
- Forearm crutches are typically made of metal and have a plastic cuff that goes around the forearm. Like axillary crutches, forearm crutches also feature handgrips and rubber tips.
- There are also crutches that are designed to be foldable. These are easier to keep and are handier.
- Hands-free crutches, like the iWalkFree crutches, are used by patients with an injury on one lower leg. These work by strapping the crutch on the injured leg, supporting the knee, allowing the patient to walk without holding the crutch.
Additional Costs
- Extra rubber pads can be bought and added for better comfort and convenience when using the crutches. Note that you have to purchase these along with the crutches that you will be getting.
- Replacement kits, consisting of handgrips and rubber tips, will cost you about $10.
- Basic crutches are available in your local medical supply store. But if you prefer buying online, especially if you want the high-end products or have personal customizations, you will need to pay a shipping fee to have the manufacturer send you the crutches.
Factors That Affect The Crutches Price
Make of Crutches: Crutches can be made from different kind of materials. Basic crutches are made of wood and come in fixed lengths. Crutches made out of metal, usually aluminum, are capable of adjustments
Type of Crutches: Crutches come in different sizes and types. Ordinary crutches have pads that fit under the armpit and also have handgrips. This kind can come singly or in pairs. Forearm crutches reach up to the arm only and do not need the support through the armpits. Modern crutches do not need extensions in the arm anymore as they can support injury like a brace. These are called hands- free crutches as they can support the entire leg on their own. But these modern crutches cost much more than ordinary crutches.
Crutches Feature: Crutches can be categorized as fixed, adjustable, or folding. The cheapest type of crutches is the regular fixed type. Foldable and adjustable crutches cost more than the ordinary ones.
Tips To Know When Buying Crutches
- First of all, you have to get your doctor’s recommendation before purchasing your crutches. Your doctor will have the best recommendation on what type of crutches is suitable for you and your injury. You wouldn’t want to spend more money to buy another pair of crutches after knowing that you bought the wrong type of crutches for your condition.
- You can personalize your crutches with additional cushions for better comfort and convenience. Moreover, colored crutch pad covers are available to match your dress or shirt or maybe your favorite color.
Ways to Save Money when buying Crutches
- The best way to save money on your crutches is to find items that are on sale or offered with discounts. Many sellers will sell their product at a lower market price during the holidays, end of the year, or right before their inventory.
- A convenient way to find sale items is to look for it on the web. Browsing online shops makes it easier to canvass for prices compared to physically going to individual medical supply stores.
- Consult with your health insurance provider. Most insurance providers will cover crutches if advised that it is medically necessary.
- Consider buying pre-owned crutches. Injuries that need crutches for mobility aid are usually temporary. Most people will use their crutches for a month or two, so it should be relatively easy for you to find second-hand crutches that are in mint condition and sold a lot cheaper than brand new.
- Some non-profits, based locally or regionally, have programs that provide free short-term loans of crutches and other medical equipment. These short-term loans usually last three to four months.
Renting Crutches
- Most medical centers and facilities, and some pharmacies have services that offer rental of crutches. These rental programs are particularly useful for the fixed-income individual who only needs to use crutches for a short period of time. The selection process may be lengthier, but the patient will pay close to nothing for the crutches.