Fulcrum | Forearm Crutch To Cane Combo

After a lower body injury, patients go through a rehabilitation process to improve their mobility. As patients improve, their assistive technology needs may change. Other people with a permanent disability may also have changing assistive technology needs as they have good days and bad days. One way to possibly simplify these changing needs is the Fulcrum concept design by Arman Kirim. An adjustable forearm crutch that can easily transform into a standard walking cane.

An Able Cane
To describe the Fulcrum let’s start out with its cane mode. Basically it’s like your standard cane with adjustable height and “7” shaped handle at the top. Padding in the handle make for a comfortable grip while a wide rubber bottom creates a stable base. The unique part here is that the handle can be set at different angles between 0° and 90°.

More Than Meets The Eye
To change into the forearm crutch setting, there is a separate forearm brace attachment. Between the handle and hinge is a hollow tube. The forearm brace slides into this tube and can be set at three different heights. The cane handle still acts as the handle in crutch mode. Again different angles can be set to the user’s preference.

Conclusion
Forearm crutches are usually used in pairs so two Fulcrums would probably be needed. Which if this were manufactured, would probably not be cost effective compared to standard walking canes and forearm crutches purchased together. But Fulcrum could reduce the amount of equipment and give instant flexibility. As I always say, having options is a good thing.