Where to Purchase Crutches in Canada?
Why Knowing Where to Purchase Crutches Matters
When you’re suddenly dealing with an injury, surgery recovery, or ongoing mobility issues, crutches can become essential. But many Canadians don’t realize that not all crutches are created equal. Choosing the right type—and the right place to buy them—can directly affect how comfortable and safe your recovery will be.
That’s why it’s important to understand where to purchase crutches in Canada. From pharmacies and local stores to specialist retailers and online marketplaces, each option comes with unique pros and cons. The goal isn’t just to buy crutches—it’s to make sure you’re purchasing the right ones for your height, weight, lifestyle, and recovery timeline.
Pharmacies: Fast but Limited
If you need crutches urgently, your local pharmacy is often the first place people think of. Pharmacies across Canada, from Shoppers Drug Mart to smaller independents, often carry basic adjustable crutches.
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Pros: Convenience, immediate access, and no waiting for shipping.
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Cons: Selection is limited, and staff may not have the specialized knowledge to recommend advanced models.
If you’re asking yourself where to purchase crutches today and you don’t want to wait, a pharmacy may be the right answer. But if you need more ergonomic or hands-free designs, you may need to look elsewhere.
Specialist Mobility Stores: Best for Long-Term Use
Specialist mobility retailers are among the top recommendations for Canadians wondering where to purchase crutches that will last. Stores like Motion, AgeComfort, or regional mobility shops stock a wide variety of designs—standard, ergonomic, and even custom-fit options.
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Expert Fitting: Staff are trained to help measure and adjust crutches correctly.
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Selection: You’ll find more than just basic underarm crutches—forearm crutches, folding crutches, and knee crutches are available.
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Service: Personalized advice for your injury type and recovery stage.
The main drawback? Price. Specialist shops tend to be more expensive. However, if your recovery will take months—or if you need crutches long-term—the added investment is often worth it.
Online Retailers: Wide Selection and Fast Delivery
For many Canadians, the easiest answer to where to purchase crutches is online. Websites like Amazon.ca, Wellwise, or dedicated medical suppliers offer a broad range, from budget crutches to high-end ergonomic models.
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Pros: Convenience, large selection, and the ability to compare prices instantly.
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Cons: You can’t try before you buy, so you’ll need to pay attention to sizing charts and reviews.
Tips for buying online:
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Always check customer reviews to confirm durability.
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Look for return policies in case sizing isn’t right.
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If possible, choose retailers offering next-day or expedited delivery.
Online ordering is particularly useful if you’re recovering at home and leaving the house is difficult.
Hospitals and Clinics: Temporary Options
Sometimes, the place where you receive treatment is also the first place to answer the question of where to purchase crutches. Many hospitals in Canada provide standard crutches after surgery or injury. These are usually intended for temporary use and may be returned once you’re healed.
If you need crutches immediately after an accident, this is often the fastest way to get them—but don’t expect premium or ergonomic designs. If your recovery is long-term, you’ll likely want to invest in your own pair.
What to Consider Before Purchasing Crutches
Finding where to purchase crutches is only part of the journey. Equally important is choosing the right type and ensuring they’re adjusted properly.
Durability & Materials
Crutches support your full or partial body weight, so they need to be strong. Aluminium models are lightweight but sturdy. Stainless steel options are heavier but more durable.
Adjustability
Your crutches should adjust to your height. Poorly fitted crutches can cause shoulder strain, back pain, or even nerve damage.
Comfort Features
Look for cushioned grips, padded cuffs, or underarm padding. Over weeks of use, small comfort features can make a huge difference.
Weight-Bearing Needs
Some crutches are meant for non-weight-bearing injuries (where you can’t put any weight on the leg at all), while others allow partial support. Always match your crutches to your medical requirements.
Hands-Free Alternatives
If you’re exploring where to purchase crutches but don’t like the limitations of traditional models, consider knee crutches like the iWALK.
These hands-free options allow you to carry groceries, use both hands, and move around more naturally. They can be life-changing for people with below-the-knee injuries. While not available everywhere, you can usually find them at specialist mobility retailers or online.
Proper Measurement and Adjustment
Even after you’ve decided where to purchase crutches, correct adjustment is vital.
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Hand grips should align with the crease of your wrist when standing tall.
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Elbows should bend about 15–20 degrees when gripping.
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Underarm crutches should never press directly into the armpit; leave a two-finger gap to avoid nerve damage.
Getting the right fit isn’t optional—it’s the difference between safe mobility and additional injury.
Maintaining Your Crutches
Wherever you choose to purchase crutches, maintaining them is just as important.
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Inspect tips regularly and replace if worn.
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Tighten bolts or screws every few weeks.
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Wipe down grips and pads to avoid skin irritation.
Proper care ensures your crutches stay safe and reliable throughout your recovery.
Speed Matters in Recovery
One of the most overlooked factors in deciding where to purchase crutches is speed. An injury can derail daily life instantly, and getting mobility aids quickly helps reduce stress, protect your injury, and restore independence.
Delays in getting crutches can prolong healing and make everyday tasks harder than they need to be. That’s why prioritizing speed—whether through a local pharmacy, mobility shop, or next-day shipping online—is so important.
Quick Guide: Where to Purchase Crutches in Canada
To make it easier, here’s a snapshot of your main options:
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Pharmacies: Fast, basic models.
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Mobility Stores: Professional fitting, wide selection.
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Online: Convenience, fast delivery, lots of choice.
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Hospitals/Clinics: Temporary, standard models.
By weighing cost, convenience, and comfort, you can choose the option that fits your needs best.
Consulting Professionals
Even if you know exactly where to purchase crutches, consult your doctor or physiotherapist. They can guide you on the correct type for your injury, ensuring you don’t make a costly or unsafe choice.
Final Word: Choose Smart, Recover Better
At the end of the day, the real question isn’t just where to purchase crutches—it’s how to make the right decision for your body and lifestyle.
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Choose durable models.
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Ensure proper fitting.
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Consider comfort and hands-free alternatives.
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Don’t wait—get them as soon as you need them.
With the right pair of crutches from the right source, your recovery will be safer, faster, and far more comfortable.
Helping You Stay Safe, Mobile & Independent — That’s the Davies Way
At Davies Home Healthcare, we’ve been proudly serving the North Shore community with mobility aids, bedroom and bathroom safety equipment, and daily living supports for decades. Whether you're shopping for wheelchairs, scooters, stairlifts, or just need bracing, stockings, or a hospital bed rental, our expert team is here to help — with personalized fittings, installations, and support every step of the way.
Visit our new North Vancouver showroom or give us a call to learn more about our sales, rentals, and in-home installation services.
And don’t forget — for prescription medications, compliance packs, immunizations, and more, our trusted partner Davies Prescription Pharmacy is just around the corner.
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