---
title: Top 5 Tips for Buying Crutches
description: Discover the world beyond crutches. Learn how the right pair transforms mobility. From underarm to forearm, material choices to fitting tips—walk with ease
image: https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Original%20Crutches.jpg
---
[  ](https://www.spinalcord.com/)
MENU **
**
[
The Purpose Behind Spinalcord.com
** Play
Dale Swope's Story
](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1kPXDw_CQU) [For Advice Call:
(877) 336-7192
](tel:8773367192) 
- [About](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)
- [About Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)
- [Our Team](https://www.spinalcord.com/our-team)
- [Trusted By](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by)
- [Journal](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog)
- [Spinal Cord Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury)
- Spinal Injury Types
- [What is Spinal Cord?](https://www.spinalcord.com/what-is-the-spinal-cord)
- [Types of Spinal Cord Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Secondary Complications](https://www.spinalcord.com/secondary-complications-after-sci-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Cervical Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/cervical-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Thoracic Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Lumbar Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/lumbar-l1-l5-vertebrae-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Sacral Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/sacral-spine-s1-s5-vertebrae-injuries-sacral-sparing)
- Paralysis Types
- [Paralysis](https://www.spinalcord.com/paralysis)
- [Types of Paralysis](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-paralysis)
- [Monoplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/monoplegia)
- [Diplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/diplegia)
- [Hemiplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/hemiplegia)
- [Paraplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/paraplegia)
- [Quadriplegia | Tetraplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/quadriplegia-tetraplegia)
- Additional Info
- [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
- [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-non-traumatic-traumatic-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/signs-symptoms-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/prognosis-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Mental Health Care After SCI](https://www.spinalcord.com/mental-health-care-after-sci)
- [Life After SCI](https://www.spinalcord.com/life-after-a-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Resources for Veterans](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/topic/veterans)
- [Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-acquired-brain-injury)
- Brain Injury Types
- [Traumatic Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury)
- [ Acquired Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/acquired-brain-injury)
- [Anoxic Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/anoxic-brain-injury)
- [Diffuse Axonal Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/diffuse-axonal-brain-injury)
- [ Focal Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/focal-brain-injury)
- [ Subdural Hematoma](https://www.spinalcord.com/subdural-hematoma)
- [ Concussion](https://www.spinalcord.com/concussion)
- [ Brain Aneurysm](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-aneurysm)
- [ Coma](https://www.spinalcord.com/coma)
- Lobes of the Brain
- [ Brain Lobes Overview](https://www.spinalcord.com/lobes-of-the-brain)
- [ Frontal Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/frontal-lobe)
- [ Parietal Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/parietal-lobe)
- [ Occipital Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/occipital-lobe)
- [ Temporal Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/temporal-lobe)
- [ Limbic Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/limbic-lobe)
- [ Insular Cortex](https://www.spinalcord.com/insular-cortex)
- Additional Info
- [Brain Injury Treatment](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-treatment/brain-injury-lab)
- [ Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
- [ Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-traumatic-and-acquired-brain-injuries)
- [ Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi-symptoms)
- [ Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-prognosis-for-tbi-abi)
- [ Resources For Veterans](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/best-resources-for-veterans-with-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Treatment ](https://www.spinalcord.com/treatment-for-brain-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Physician Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-physician-directory)
- [Rehabilitation Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-hospitals-rehabilitation-directory)
- [Intensive SCI Rehabilitation Centers](https://www.spinalcord.com/intensive-sci-rehabilitation-centers)
- [Technology Advancements ](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-technology-advancements)
- [Activity Based Therapy Centers](https://www.spinalcord.com/activity-based-therapy-centers)
- [Brain Injury Treatment](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-treatment/brain-injury-lab)
- [Prevention](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-prevention)
- [Legal Options](https://www.spinalcord.com/legal-considerations-for-common-types-of-brain-and-spinal-cord-injuries)
- Legal Assistance
- [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
- [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
- [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start)
- [When To Get A Lawyer - eBook](https://www.spinalcord.com/your-guide-to-knowing-when-to-get-a-lawyer)
- [Speak With An Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)
- [Protecting an Accident Scene](https://www.spinalcord.com/protecting-an-accident-crime-scene)
- Legal Considerations
- [Overview](https://www.spinalcord.com/legal-considerations-for-common-types-of-brain-and-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Car Accidents](https://www.spinalcord.com/car-accidents)
- [Contact Sports](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-sports)
- [Acts of Violence](https://www.spinalcord.com/acts-of-violence)
- [Workplace Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/workplace-injuries)
- [Slips and Falls](https://www.spinalcord.com/slips-and-falls)
- [Contusions](https://www.spinalcord.com/contusions)
- Personal Injury Claims
- [Types](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-personal-injury-claims)
- [How to File a Personal Injury Claim](https://www.spinalcord.com/how-to-file-a-personal-injury-claim-for-a-brain-or-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Resources](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-resources)
- Coping & Support
- [Survivor Stories](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/topic/survivor-stories-inspiration)
- [Family & Friends](https://www.spinalcord.com/family-friends-of-brain-spinal-cord-injury-patients)
- [Support Groups](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-support-groups)
- [Support Groups Interactive Map](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-support-groups-map)
- [Advocacy Groups](https://www.spinalcord.com/advocacy-groups)
- Financial Resources
- [Financial Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/financial-resources)
- [Grants](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-grants)
- [Compensation](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-compensation)
- [Brain & SCI Medical Expenses](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-medical-expenses)
- [Money Management Tips](https://www.spinalcord.com/money-management-tips)
- [Life Care Plan](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-life-care-plan)
- Legal Assistance
- [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
- [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
- [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start)
- [Speak With An Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)
- [Personal Injury Lawyer](https://www.swoperodante.com/tampa-personal-injury-lawyer/)
- Digital Resources
- [Frequently Asked Questions & Answers](https://www.spinalcord.com/frequently-asked-questions-and-answers)
- [When To Get A Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/your-guide-to-knowing-when-to-get-a-lawyer)
- [Organizing Life From A Hospital](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/traumatic-injury-digital-tools-organize-from-hospital)
- [Free Brain and Spinal Cord eBooks](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-resources)
- [Spinal Cord Infographics](https://www.spinalcord.com/infographics)
- [SCI Life Uncovered Podcast](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-life-uncovered/episode-1)
- Local Resources
- [Florida Spinal Cord Injury Resources ](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-sci-resources)
- [Local Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-personal-injury-claims)
- [Map of State Resources](https://www.spinalcord.com/state-programs)
- [Community](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-community)
- [Trusted Organizations](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by-the-spinal-cord-injury-community)
- [Events Calendar](https://www.spinalcord.com/events)
- [Podcast](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-life-uncovered/episode-1)
- Recognition
- [Best of Awards](https://www.spinalcord.com/best-of-awards)
- [Trusted By Designation](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by-the-spinal-cord-injury-community)
- [** ](tel:8773367192)
- [** ](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/top-5-tips-for-buying-crutches#)
- [**
**(877) 336-7192**
](tel:8773367192)
- [**
**Contact Us**
](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us)
# Top 5 Tips for Buying Crutches
Author: [Jeff Kinney](https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors)
Publish Date: November 28, 2023
Crutches are crutches, right?
Not even close.
If you walk on crutches most of the time like me, or even if you split your time more evenly between crutches and a [wheelchair](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/how-to-choose-the-perfect-wheelchair/), it’s critical to choose the right pair. Great crutches can make all the difference between walking injury free with relative ease, and constantly dealing with sore hands, falls, and broken or worn-out equipment.
I’m 52 and have walked on crutches since I was 3 (although in recent years, I’ve been switching to a wheelchair if I know I’m going to walk a lot on a given day.) Here are my top tips for buying the best crutches for you.
## Underarm or Forearm?
As most of you know, underarm (aka axillary) crutches are just what they sound like: crutches that sit close to your armpits. Forearm crutches are shorter and have cuffs that wrap around your forearms.
Which is best? It comes down to personal preference. I used underarm crutches for most of my life, primarily because they’re inherently more stable and don’t require as much arm strength, as your back and shoulders take some of the weight.
Then, a few years ago someone persuaded me to try forearm crutches. I bought a pair of custom titanium LiteStix from [Thomas Fetterman](https://fetterman-crutches.com/collections/crutches) and never looked back. They’re lighter, shorter, more portable, more maneuverable, and generally more ergonomic than any underarm crutches – and most other forearm crutches, for that matter.
It did take a couple of months to strengthen my wrists and forearms enough so my new titanium beauties didn’t wobble when I walked. Plus, having them dangle from my arms when I reached for something took some adjustment. But now I wouldn’t use anything else, and they’ve facilitated [many adventures](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/stuck-in-the-alaskan-muck/).
Note: If you choose underarm crutches, DO NOT lean on them with your armpits. Doing this not only makes you less stable, but it can also [damage](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15543-how-to-use-crutches) your shoulder joints and the nerves and blood vessels under your arms.
## Pick the Right Material
I’ve owned crutches made of wood, aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. The main benefit of wood is that it’s cheap. But it’s also heavy and can splinter.
I still have my first pair of wooden crutches. One of them has a crack that my father repaired with zip ties. I have no idea how I broke them at that age. I also remember a time in fifth grade recess when I was playing goalie and tried to block a shot with one of my crutches. I missed the ball, smacked a brick wall next to me, and heard a splintering sound. This was, to put it mildly, inconvenient.
I’ve tried aluminum crutches as well, but they too can break. Ask me how I know.
As I mentioned above, I now prefer Fettermans’ custom titanium forearm crutches. I’ve tried carbon fiber, but even though it’s a bit lighter, it’s also brittle and doesn’t absorb shock.
Titanium flexes and does absorb shock, which helps preserve my shoulders. And they’re essentially impossible to break with anything like normal use; at most, they would bend under a huge amount of force.
If you’re a full-time crutch user, I would spend the money for titanium or carbon fiber. Those materials are far and away the best available for crutches.
## Make Sure They Fit Correctly
If your crutches don’t fit right, they won’t work well and could even cause injury. For those of you who are full-time or substantial part-time crutch users, I strongly recommend getting a custom pair that’s made and measured to fit you.
If that’s out of your price range, there are steps you can take to ensure any pair of crutches fits as well as possible.
According to [Washington University Orthopedics](https://www.ortho.wustl.edu/content/Education/3628/Patient-Education/Educational-Materials/How-to-Fit-and-Use-Crutches.aspx#:~:text=There%20should%20be%20a%20two,slightly%20to%20about%20thirty%20degrees.), to fit adjustable underarm crutches:
1. Stand tall with your shoes on. Make sure your shoes have low heels and good support.
2. Put the crutches under your arms.
3. Relax your arms and let them hang down over the crutches. There should be a two-inch space between your armpit and the top of the crutch with your hands hanging relaxed.
4. The hand grips should be at the level of your wrist when holding the hand grips.
5. Your elbows should be bent slightly to about thirty degrees.
I can’t stress enough how important it is to maintain that gap between the top of the crutch and your armpit. As I mentioned above, if you don’t, it can cause serious health problems.
To fit adjustable forearm crutches that aren’t custom made by a professional, the cuff height should be about 2 inches from your elbow. Then adjust the handgrip height so it’s about at your wrist and your forearm is slightly bent when you’re holding it.
## Save Your Hands
Walking on crutches can be brutal on your hands. Wearing gloves can help; I favor fingerless mountain biking gloves with padded palms.
But the best way to minimize soreness is to get the right type of hand grips. Forget the cheap foam grips that come with standard crutches. They’re padding is pathetic, plus they wear out after only a few months of daily use.
Instead, get grips that will last a long time and cushion your hands properly. Fetterman sells a [variety of them](https://fetterman-crutches.com/collections/grips), some of which I like and some of which are just meh. I love his [Performance Hand Grips](https://fetterman-crutches.com/collections/grips/products/performance-gel-filled-hand-grip), which have a gel pad for cushioning that serves double duty as a shock absorber. Some others, like the [Right Grips](https://fetterman-crutches.com/collections/grips/products/right-grips), are too hard or otherwise don’t work for me.
Try several grips and see what works for you. Good grips are spendy, but worth it. To keep walking on crutches, you have to protect your hands at all costs.
## Don’t Forget the Tips
In many ways, crutch tips are like car tires; they may seem insignificant, but they’re crucial for performance.
As with grips, most of the tips you find in drug stores are garbage. They’re small, so they don’t have enough surface area to provide a secure grip. They’re made of flimsy materials, so they’ll wear out before you know it. And they don’t flex, so if you hold your crutches at an angle, part of the tip won’t even contact the ground.
The good news is that Fetterman has solved all of these problems. His [crutch tips](https://fetterman-crutches.com/collections/tips) are the best I’ve found by far, because:
- The larger size has a larger surface area for a better grip.
- Both the small and large sizes flex and maintain full contact with the ground nearly regardless of crutch angle.
- Built-in shock-absorbing gel reduces the hammering on your shoulders when you walk.
- Premium, long lasting materials offset the higher price.
I’ve used these crutch tips for years, and honestly I can’t imagine using anything else. They’ve enabled me to walk in all sorts of conditions without falling, including over wet rocks, up slippery stairs, etc.
No crutch tips are slip proof, of course. But I fall a LOT less with these than I would using standard crutch tips.
If you don’t buy Fetterman’s tips, buy some that are similar. Your shoulders will thank you, as will the rest of your body when you don’t fall as much.
So that’s my advice. Hopefully you’ll find them useful the next time you go shopping for a pair of crutches, grips, or tips. And don’t forget to check out my blog, [Thrive With Paralysis](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/), for dozens of articles on [health](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/health/), [recreation](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/all-recreation-articles/), [relationships and life skills](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/all-relationships-and-life-skills-articles/), and [disability news, science, and technology](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/all-news-science-and-tech-articles/).
**Topics:**
### Stay Updated on Advancements On Traumatic Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries
About the Author
#### Jeff Kinney
Meet Jeff Kinney, a blogger providing a unique perspective on spinal cord injuries. A journalist and attorney with spina bifida, Jeff transforms challenges into triumphs. Through his blog, Thrive With Paralysis, he delivers expert advice on living your best life despite disabilities. With three weekly posts spanning health, recreation, relationships, life skills, and cutting-edge news, Jeff's journalistic prowess shines. Dive into in-depth articles on workouts, college, and adaptive tech. Jeff's unique lens captures not just inspiration but practical insights from those who've conquered obstacles. Beyond the blog, Jeff, an outdoor enthusiast, balances family, work, and a love for adaptive sports, pushing boundaries with activities like handcycling, scuba diving, and more. Join Jeff as he shares insights with our audience on SpinalCord.com for a journey of empowerment and shared knowledge, then be sure to read his full catalogue on Thrive With paralysis.
[Learn More About the Author](https://www.thrivewithparalysis.com/)
**Leave a Comment**
[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/575040/dc8bc979-ba55-463a-9400-f92cbdebcb1a)
true
### Spinal Cord Injury
- [Types of Spinal Cord Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Secondary Complications](https://www.spinalcord.com/secondary-complications-after-sci-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/signs-symptoms-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/prognosis-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Legal Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)
### Brain Injury
- [Types of Brain Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-traumatic-brain-injury)
- [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-traumatic-and-acquired-brain-injuries)
- [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi-symptoms)
- [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-prognosis-for-tbi-abi)
- [Legal Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)
### Finding Treatment
- [Physician Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-physician-directory)
- [Rehabilitation Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-hospitals-rehabilitation-directory)
- [Technology Advancements](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-technology-advancements)
- [Prevention](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-prevention)
### Legal Options
- [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
- [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
- [Types of Personal Injury Claims](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-personal-injury-claims)
- [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start)
- [Local Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-personal-injury-claims)
#### [About Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)
Spinal cord injuries are traumatic for patients and their families. They cause disruptive changes to every aspect of your life and there is a lot of new information to navigate and understand. Our experts have collected everything in one place to help you learn more about your injury, locate doctors and treatment centers, find financial support, and get assistance navigating your next move.
[Learn More About SpinalCord.com →](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)
## [Contact Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us)
** [877-336-7192](tel:8773367192)
** [support@spinalcord.com](mailto:support@spinalcord.com)
[**](https://www.facebook.com/spinalcordcom) [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/spinalcord-com/) [**](https://twitter.com/SpinalCordCom) [**](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAbz2AC18acXQkpMNPeDIqg)
Copyright 2026 | All Rights Reserved. [Spinal Cord, Inc.](https://www.spinalcord.com)
Sponsored by [Tampa personal injury lawyers](https://www.swoperodante.com/tampa-personal-injury-lawyer/) at Swope, Rodante P.A. a Florida law firm located at 1234 E 5th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605.
The information provided by SpinalCord.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, see [ Disclaimer Policy.](https://www.spinalcord.com/disclaimer)
[**](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/top-5-tips-for-buying-crutches#)
[**](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/top-5-tips-for-buying-crutches#)
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "WebSite",
"name" : "Spinal Cord, Inc.",
"potentialAction" : {
"@type" : "SearchAction",
"query-input" : "required name=search_query",
"target" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/search?q={search_query}"
},
"url" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/"
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "Organization",
"contactPoint" : [ {
"@type" : "ContactPoint",
"contactType" : "customer service",
"telephone" : "+1-877-336-7192"
} ],
"legalName" : "Spinal Cord, Inc.",
"logo" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/spinalcordcom", "https://twitter.com/SpinalCordCom", "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAbz2AC18acXQkpMNPeDIqg", "http://www.linkedin.com/company/spinalcord-com" ],
"url" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/"
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "http://schema.org",
"@type" : "Article",
"articleBody" : "The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic spinal cord injury, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as a contusion. Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.\n\nWhat Is a Spinal Contusion?
\n![\"Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image\"](\"https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=300&name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg\")
\nMuch like any other bruise, a contusion can cause bleeding from local blood vessels and inflammation which, rather unlike bruises on other parts of the body, can have serious negative impacts on the spinal cord itself. Because the “blood must clot to stop the bleeding”a bruise results from contusions also increase cardiovascular risks.
\nFor example, the swelling a contusion can cause will often disrupt nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body through the spinal cord, and the severity of this will depend upon the level of injury. Unlike a concussion, a contusion would not cause unconsciousness or a ‘blackout’, but instead cause the patient to feel a numbness or tingling in the extremities.
\nA contusion can cause spinal compression, which happens when there is pressure on the spinal cord. This can go on to cause an array of physical symptoms such as loss of sensation in the feet, inability to use the hands and loss of sexual ability. It must be noted that not all contusions cause spinal compression, and not all spinal compression is caused by a contusion, although they do often connect this way.
\nWarning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion to Watch For
\nFirstly, doctors will try and establish what area or limb the injury has affected. Spinal contusions most often “affect the upper extremities bilaterally and also sometimes involve the lower extremities,” according to Dr. Wong, an orthopedic physician.
\nSymptoms include “numbness, tingling, [or] electric shock-like sensations and burning in the extremities,” (American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 2016). Generally falling into the category of “spinal trauma” there are many symptoms which are similar to other forms of spinal trauma and spinal cord injury. Below are some symptoms of spinal trauma:
\n\n- Spinal shock — or the "loss of feeling or movement below site of injury" (Columbia University Medical Centre, 2016) that can last between hours and weeks
\n- Loss of bladder or bowel function
\n- Difficulty breathing
\n- Muscle spasticity
\n- Difficulty understanding speech
\n- Problems with attention
\n- Memory challenges
\n- Heart rate and blood pressure problems
\n
\nUnfortunately, it is sometimes challenging to identify which symptoms are due to a spinal contusion, and which ones are the result of a spinal cord injury directly. It can sometimes require a few days or weeks for the body to recover from spinal trauma and reveal if any permanent damage is left from the accident that caused the SCI.
\nUnderstanding what a contusion is, and how it can come into play following a spinal cord injury is important in order to clearly appreciate your injury, understand your diagnoses, and work toward treatment and a prognosis. Doctors can sometimes use jargon that’s difficult to understand, so the more you can educate yourself about your condition, the more control you can have in your recovery and treatment.
\nIf you still have questions about the details of the spinal cord and how it may be affected from your injury, please contact us or download our guide to understanding a spinal cord injury.",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Spinalcord.com Team"
},
"datePublished" : "2020-12-03",
"image" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion",
"name" : "Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion",
"url" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion"
}
```
```json
{
"@context":"https://schema.org",
"@graph":[{"@type":"WebSite",
"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/#website",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion",
"name":"Spinal Cord Inc",
"description":"The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic spinal cord injury, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as a contusion. Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.",
"inLanguage":"en-US"},
{
"@type":"ImageObject",
"@id":"Spinalcord Logo",
"inLanguage":"en-US",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"width":327,"height":300,
"caption":"spinal contusion"},
{
"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#webpage",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion",
"name":"Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion",
"isPartOf":{"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/#website"},
"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#primaryimage"},
"datePublished":"2020-12-03T18:30:35+00:00","dateModified":"2020-12-03T18:30:35+00:00",
"author":{"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors"},
"description":"The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic spinal cord injury, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as a contusion. Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.
What Is a Spinal Contusion?
Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image
Much like any other bruise, a contusion can cause bleeding from local blood vessels and inflammation which, rather unlike bruises on other parts of the body, can have serious negative impacts on the spinal cord itself. Because the “blood must clot to stop the bleeding”a bruise results from contusions also increase cardiovascular risks.
For example, the swelling a contusion can cause will often disrupt nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body through the spinal cord, and the severity of this will depend upon the level of injury. Unlike a concussion, a contusion would not cause unconsciousness or a ‘blackout’, but instead cause the patient to feel a numbness or tingling in the extremities.
A contusion can cause spinal compression, which happens when there is pressure on the spinal cord. This can go on to cause an array of physical symptoms such as loss of sensation in the feet, inability to use the hands and loss of sexual ability. It must be noted that not all contusions cause spinal compression, and not all spinal compression is caused by a contusion, although they do often connect this way.
Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion to Watch For
Firstly, doctors will try and establish what area or limb the injury has affected. Spinal contusions most often “affect the upper extremities bilaterally and also sometimes involve the lower extremities,” according to Dr. Wong, an orthopedic physician.
Symptoms include “numbness, tingling, [or] electric shock-like sensations and burning in the extremities,” (American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 2016). Generally falling into the category of “spinal trauma” there are many symptoms which are similar to other forms of spinal trauma and spinal cord injury. Below are some symptoms of spinal trauma:
Spinal shock — or the loss of feeling or movement below site of injury (Columbia University Medical Centre, 2016) that can last between hours and weeks
Loss of bladder or bowel function
Difficulty breathing
Muscle spasticity
Difficulty understanding speech
Problems with attention
Memory challenges
Heart rate and blood pressure problems
Unfortunately, it is sometimes challenging to identify which symptoms are due to a spinal contusion, and which ones are the result of a spinal cord injury directly. It can sometimes require a few days or weeks for the body to recover from spinal trauma and reveal if any permanent damage is left from the accident that caused the SCI.
Understanding what a contusion is, and how it can come into play following a spinal cord injury is important in order to clearly appreciate your injury, understand your diagnoses, and work toward treatment and a prognosis. Doctors can sometimes use jargon that’s difficult to understand, so the more you can educate yourself about your condition, the more control you can have in your recovery and treatment.
If you still have questions about the details of the spinal cord and how it may be affected from your injury, please contact us or download our guide to understanding a spinal cord injury.",
"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#breadcrumb"},
"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion"]}]},
{
"@type":"BreadcrumbList",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#breadcrumb",
"itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem",
"position":1,
"item":
{
"@type":"WebPage",
"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/",
"url":"https://spinalcord.com/",
"name":"Home"}},
{"@type":"ListItem",
"position":2,
"item":{"@type":"WebPage",
"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/blog/",
"url":"https://spinalcord.com/blog/",
"name":"Articles"}},
{"@type":"ListItem",
"position":3,
"item":{"@type":"WebPage",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/",
"name":"Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion"}}]},
{"@type":"Person",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors",
"name":"Spinalcord Team",
"image":{"@type":"ImageObject",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"inLanguage":"en-US",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"caption":"Spinalcord Team"},
"description":"The authors at SpinalCord.com come from diverse backgrounds including doctors, attorneys, medical journalist, and survivors of spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. Each author brings with them different experiences and expertise which when combined provide clinically accurate information which is useful to all individuals in the spinal cord and traumatic brain injury communities. Within the content you will find citations to medical journals, scientific research, as well as national and local resources to provide immediate support to families in need of assistance. Content is reviewed and updated regularly with changes in the clinical guidelines, new resources, and fresh ways to understand the content such as videos and infographics. ."
}
]}
```