Smart Shopping: Use our Cost Comparison Calculator to find the best value based on your insurance and duration of use.

Complete Crutch Comparison

Type Best For Price Range Weight Capacity Learning Curve Pros Cons
Axillary (Underarm) Short-term (6-8 weeks), beginners $20-$50 250-300 lbs Easy Most affordable, widely available, easy to learn Underarm discomfort, nerve risk, bulky
Forearm (Lofstrand) Long-term, active users $50-$150 250-350 lbs Moderate Maneuverable, less tiring, hands-free option Requires strength, higher learning curve
Platform Arthritis, weak grip, hand injuries $100-$300 250-400 lbs Easy-Moderate No hand/wrist strain, comfortable Bulky, expensive, less common
Hands-Free (iWALK/Knee) Below-knee injuries, active lifestyle $150-$400 275-400 lbs Moderate-Hard Hands free, maintains posture, less fatigue Not for all terrains, balance required, expensive

Material Comparisons

Aluminum

Most Popular Choice

  • Weight: Lightweight (1-2 lbs per crutch)
  • Durability: Good - won't rust
  • Cost: $20-$80
  • Best for: Most users, general use

✓ Recommended: Best balance of weight, cost, and durability

Steel

Heavy-Duty Option

  • Weight: Heavy (3-4 lbs per crutch)
  • Durability: Excellent
  • Cost: $30-$70
  • Best for: Heavier users (300+ lbs)

Carbon Fiber

Premium Choice

  • Weight: Ultra-light (0.5-1 lb per crutch)
  • Durability: Excellent
  • Cost: $150-$500
  • Best for: Long-term use, athletes, max performance

Wood

Traditional/Aesthetic

  • Weight: Moderate-Heavy (2-3 lbs)
  • Durability: Moderate
  • Cost: $40-$120
  • Best for: Permanent users wanting style

Weight Capacity Guide

Choosing crutches with appropriate weight capacity is crucial for safety. Factor in:

  • Your body weight
  • Any items you'll carry (backpack, etc.)
  • Safety margin of 50+ lbs recommended

Weight Capacity by Type:

Standard Aluminum 250-300 lbs
Heavy-Duty Aluminum 350-400 lbs
Bariatric Steel 500-700 lbs
Carbon Fiber 250-350 lbs

✓ Use Our Tool: Try the Weight Capacity Checker for personalized recommendations

Budget Guide

Budget: $20-$50

What You Get:

  • Basic aluminum axillary crutches
  • Standard rubber tips
  • Minimal padding
  • Adjustable height

Best For: Short-term use (under 8 weeks)

Where to Buy: CVS, Walgreens, Amazon, medical supply stores

Mid-Range: $50-$150

What You Get:

  • Forearm crutches
  • Better padding
  • Ergonomic grips
  • More durable materials

Best For: Extended use (2-6 months)

Where to Buy: Specialized medical suppliers, online retailers

Premium: $150-$500

What You Get:

  • Carbon fiber crutches
  • Hands-free devices
  • Custom ergonomics
  • Long-term durability

Best For: Long-term/permanent use, athletes

Where to Buy: Specialized retailers, direct from manufacturers

Money-Saving Tip: Consider renting if your recovery is under 8 weeks. Rental: $20-$40/month vs. $50-$100 to buy. Break-even point is around 2-3 months.

Insurance Coverage

Medicare Coverage (2025)

Medicare Part B covers crutches as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) when:

  • Prescribed by doctor enrolled in Medicare
  • Medically necessary for use in your home
  • Purchased/rented from Medicare-approved supplier

Your Cost:

  • 20% coinsurance after meeting annual deductible ($240 for 2025)
  • Example: $100 crutches = $20 out-of-pocket

Private Insurance

Most private insurance plans cover crutches similarly to Medicare:

  • Copay: Typically $10-$40
  • Requirements: Doctor's prescription, pre-authorization (some plans)
  • In-Network: Use preferred DME suppliers for best coverage
  • Out-of-Network: May require upfront payment + reimbursement claim

⚠️ Call First: Always verify coverage with your insurance before purchasing. Get pre-authorization if required.

HSA/FSA Eligible

Crutches are qualified medical expenses for:

  • Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Save on taxes by using pre-tax dollars! Includes crutches, accessories, and pads.

Financial Assistance Programs

National Organizations

  • The Salvation Army: Medical equipment assistance - call local office
  • Lions Clubs International: Medical equipment loans - find local club at lionsclubs.org
  • Modest Needs: Emergency grants for medical equipment - modestneeds.org
  • Freecycle Network: Free community exchange - freecycle.org

State Programs

Many states offer equipment assistance through:

  • State Medicaid programs
  • Vocational rehabilitation services
  • Independent living centers
  • Community health centers

Find your state resources: Check our Directory

Where to Buy

Retail Pharmacies

CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid

  • ✓ Immediate availability
  • ✓ Basic selection
  • ✓ May process insurance
  • ✗ Limited selection
  • ✗ Higher prices

Price Range: $30-$80

Medical Supply Stores

Local DME Suppliers

  • ✓ Expert fitting assistance
  • ✓ Wide selection
  • ✓ Insurance billing
  • ✓ Rental options
  • ✗ May require appointment

Price Range: $25-$200

Find suppliers near you →

Online Retailers

Amazon, Vitality Medical, Allegro Medical

  • ✓ Best prices
  • ✓ Largest selection
  • ✓ Customer reviews
  • ✓ Convenient delivery
  • ✗ No fitting help
  • ✗ Wait for shipping

Price Range: $20-$500

✓ Next Step: Use our Cost Comparison Calculator to compare rental vs. purchase costs based on your insurance and recovery timeline!