Hands-Free Crutch

Hands-Free Crutch MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT Handicapped Equipment 31-5-30 An Ontario farmer's new patented hands-free crutch allows people recuperating from foot, ankle or lower leg injuries to move about easily without the hassle of conventional crutches. Invented by Lance Matthews, it consists of a single "brace" which is strapped to the leg. Made from extruded aluminum and engineered thermoplastic, the device features an adjustable "platform," where the injured patient's knee rests at a 90¦ angle. It basically serves as a prosthetic leg. Matthews was inspired to design the unique healthcare aid while recuperating from his own foot injury, the result of falling off a barn roof. He used wood to build his first unit, and it worked so well that he was able to continue to do his chores and go on holiday as planned. His system relies on body weight being supported by the flexed knee rather than the foot, and this is much more comfortable than the underarm pain that accompanies the use of conventional crutches. "The biggest advantage is that the injured person has full use of their arms and hands, and this means they can be self-sufficient in their daily activities," he says. "It can be set to work for either leg and is adjustable for user height and leg size. It's comfortable, easy to put on, take off, and adjust. It doesn't take long to get used to." Since putting it on the market in 2000, Matthews has sold more than 2,000 units to customers around the world. It currently sells for $399 (Can.), plus shipping. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, iWALKFree, 956513C7 Mulmur, Mansfield, Ontario, Canada L0N 1M0 (ph 877 268-1466 or 905 238-7630; info@iwalk-free.com; www.iwalk-free.com).

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