For patients recovering from lower-leg injuries, choosing the right mobility aid is critical not only for successful healing but also for avoiding secondary complications. Although axillary crutches remain the most prescribed assistive device (Kaye et al., 2000; Rambani et al., 2007), evidence shows that their prolonged use often leads to additional injuries that can hinder recovery (Dalton et al., 2002). By contrast, the iWALK hands-free crutch offers a safer alternative that reduces upper extremity strain, promotes natural gait, and minimizes fall risk.
Preventing Upper Body Strain
Traditional crutches transfer body weight through the arms, shoulders, and wrists. Over time, this unnatural weight-bearing increases the risk of secondary injuries, including joint pain, muscle fatigue, and nerve compression. Clinical reports have documented serious complications such as axillary artery thrombosis (McFall et al., 2004) and brachial plexus compressive neuropathy, commonly known as crutch palsy (Raikin & Froimson, 1997). Other studies have noted carpal tunnel syndrome (Gellman et al., 1988) and suprascapular neuropathy leading to shoulder degeneration (Shabas & Scheiber, 1986).
By eliminating loading of the upper extremities, the iWALK avoids these complications altogether. Instead, weight is transferred to the tibia and upper leg, which allows patients to maintain a more natural, upright posture without overuse injuries in the arms or shoulders. To date, no secondary injuries have been reported as a result of iWALK use.
Supporting Natural Posture and Gait
One of the main limitations of traditional crutches is the asymmetry they create in gait mechanics. Patients often compensate with trunk lean or hip hike, which can lead to spinal misalignment and back pain. The iWALK, by contrast, engages the quadriceps, gluteals, and hip stabilizers, enabling a balanced and more physiologic walking pattern. A randomized control trial found that patients using the iWALK experienced improved gait stability compared to those using standard crutches (Rambani et al., 2007). This not only protects the musculoskeletal system but also promotes better long-term functional outcomes.
Reducing the Risk of Falls and Slips
Instability is another challenge for patients prescribed traditional crutches, particularly on uneven surfaces or stairs. Knee scooters are often seen as an alternative, but their wheeled design introduces a different set of risks. Surveys of orthopedic surgeons report fall-related injuries associated with scooter use, sometimes leading to further complications (Rahman et al., 2020).
In contrast, the iWALK provides greater postural stability. A recent analysis confirmed that iWALK use reduces whole-body angular momentum during gait, which translates to improved balance and decreased fall risk compared to crutches or scooters (Wiederien et al., 2023). By supporting stability, the iWALK lowers the risk of fall-related injuries and makes daily activities safer for patients.
Encouraging Compliance with Recovery Protocols
Adherence to non-weight-bearing instructions is essential for proper healing, yet patients frequently abandon or misuse mobility aids due to pain or discomfort. Dalton et al. (2002) found that patient compliance declined when crutches caused excessive strain. Because the iWALK eliminates upper-body discomfort, patients are more likely to follow prescribed recovery protocols. Better compliance contributes to improved healing timelines and reduces the chance of setbacks caused by improper device use.
Long-Term Benefits for Chronic Conditions
For patients with chronic conditions like arthritis, the iWALK offers a sustainable option that reduces repetitive stress on joints and soft tissue, unlike traditional crutches that place continuous pressure on the arms and shoulders. The iWALK’s unique design provides a safer and more sustainable alternative, helping patients maintain independence while minimizing long-term risks of musculoskeletal strain. This allows patients to maintain independence and mobility without compromising musculoskeletal health.
Antejuan’s Testimonial: Finding Freedom with the iWALK
Clinical Implications
For physicians, orthopedic specialists, and rehabilitation professionals, recommending the iWALK represents a proactive step toward safer and more effective patient care. While crutches remain a common prescription, the literature demonstrates their potential to cause avoidable complications. By contrast, the iWALK provides a biomechanically sound solution that protects patients from secondary injuries while supporting functional mobility and adherence to recovery protocols.
Conclusion
The evidence is clear that axillary crutches, while still the most frequently prescribed mobility aid, carry a significant risk of secondary musculoskeletal and neurovascular injury. Documented complications such as axillary artery thrombosis, crutch palsy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and shoulder degeneration illustrate the long-term consequences of traditional crutch use. Knee scooters, though sometimes positioned as an alternative, are also associated with an increased incidence of fall-related injuries.
The iWALK crutch provides a clinically validated solution that mitigates these risks by eliminating upper-extremity loading, supporting more natural gait mechanics, and improving overall stability. By promoting patient compliance with non-weight-bearing protocols and reducing the likelihood of secondary injury, the iWALK enhances both safety and functional recovery.
References
Dalton, A. J., Maxwell, D. G., Kreder, H. J., & Borkhoff, C. M. (2002). Prospective clinical evaluation comparing standard axillary crutches with the hands free crutch. Physiotherapy Canada, 54(2), 110-115.
Gellman, H., Chandler, D., Petrasek, J., Sie, I., Adkins, R., & Waters, R. (1988). Carpal tunnel syndrome in paraplegic patients. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume, 70(4), 517-519.
Kaye, H. S., Kang, T., & LaPlante, M. P. (2000). Mobility Device Use in the United States. Disability Statistics Report 14.
McFall, B., Arya, N., Soong, C., Lee, B., & Hannon, R. (2004). Crutch induced axillary artery injury. The Ulster Medical Journal, 73(1), 50.
Raikin, S., & Froimson, M. I. (1997). Bilateral Brachial Plexus Compressive Neuropathy (Crutch Palsy). Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, 11(2), 136-138.
Rambani, R., Shahid, M. S., & Goyal, S. (2007). The use of a hands-free crutch in patients with musculoskeletal injuries: randomized control trial. International Journal of Rehabilitation Research, 30(4), 357-359.
Rahman, R., Shannon, B. A., & Ficke, J. R. (2020). Knee Scooter–Related Injuries: A Survey of Foot and Ankle Orthopedic Surgeons. Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics, 5(1), 2473011420914561. https://doi.org/10.1177/2473011420914561
Shabas, D., & Scheiber, M. (1986). Suprascapular neuropathy related to the use of crutches. American Journal of Physical Medicine, 65(6), 298-300.
Wiederien, R. C., Gari, W. J., & Wilken, J. M. (2023). Effect of crutch and walking-boot use on whole-body angular momentum during gait. Assistive Technology, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1080/10400435.2023.2229879
