• Elbow or forearm crutches are popular with young, active people when they need assistance walking, often as the result of an injury. The elbow-style crutch is attached at the elbow and has soft-grip handles. The crutch can support the weight of the person using it so that movement is not as limited. People using elbow crutches report being able to move around somewhat faster than those using underarm crutches, but forearm crutches can have drawbacks.
  
  

Instability and Falls

• Some medical researchers have found that elbow crutches are more difficult to use than underarm crutches and people can be more likely to fall or feel less stable while using them. During a 1979 study, participants who tested three models of crutches said the elbow crutches were the most difficult to use and more falls were recorded by people using them in comparison to people using underarm crutches or Canadian crutches, or walking normally.
  
  

Skin Irritation or Blisters

• Depending on the length and frequency of use, some people develop skin irritation from the plastic or metal used to make the crutches. This irritation can include redness or itchiness at the place where skin touches the crutch. Using covers and pads on the crutch can help prevent irritation. Others report getting hand blisters after use. Blisters tend to become less frequent with use.
  
  

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Developing carpal tunnel syndrome can be a concern for people using crutches for an extended amount of time. The syndrome is caused by an increase in pressure on the nerves and tendons in the hand and can result in swelling, tingling and pain in the hand and wrist. Some elbow crutch models claim to have an ergonomic grip to prevent the injury but crutch users should be careful to hold the crutches in a way that keeps the wrist straight, according to the National Institutes of Health.