The ElliptiPod energy-return crutch combines the simplicity and economy of traditional axillary (underarm) crutches with the efficiency and ergonomics of more expensive and mechanically complex alternative designs to provide patients with a distinctively comfortable, stable and energy-conserving mobility aid.

The crutch has four primary components; a straight sturdy shaft of aluminum tubing, an upper-arm cuff, a handgrip and the eponymous elliptical foot. All components are interchangeable to match the size and weight of the patient at the lowest possible cost.

The two-piece aluminum shaft comprises telescoping upper and lower sections. Double push-button locks allow the length to be adjusted.

The cuff at the top of the shaft fits around the upper arm at the thickest part of the biceps. The cuff is open to the side and pivots on a horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of travel.

The ergonomic handgrip pivots in the same manner. The mounting for the handgrip slides up or down the shaft for a precise fit.

The foot of the crutch is the unique energy-return elliptical spring. The unusually large “footprint,” about the size of an actual footprint, offers superior support on soft or yielding surfaces. The rocker shape of the contact area provides a smoother, more efficient walking experience. Various interchangeable treads for indoor or outdoor use attach to the "sole" of the foot and can be peeled off and applied as desired, just like changing your shoes.

Traditional and alternative crutches fall short of patient needs and expectations.

• Non-energy-return crutches fail to mimic the naturally efficient elasticity of leg muscles and tendons
• Common axillary (underarm) crutches are too easy to drop
• Axillary crutches have also caused radial nerve damage and axillary artery thrombosis
• Rigid handgrips cause fatigue by inefficiently transferring continually shifting forces into the hand and wrist
• Rigid handgrips also require the elbow to bend, forcing the smaller muscles of the arm to bear the weight of the body
• Small crutch tips are notoriously prone to slipping
• Lofstrand (forearm) crutches are unsettlingly unstable for many patients
• Some alternative crutches are left-side or right-side specific
• Other energy-return crutches are often exceedingly expensive, mechanically complex, noisy or conspicuous

ElliptiPod crutches offer patients better performance, safety, comfort and convenience at low cost.

• Simple, silent, efficient, elliptical energy-return spring
• Interchangeable adjustable components match the size and weight of any patient
• Low-cost, straight, sturdy, tubular aluminum shaft
• The pivoting upper-arm cuff allows patients to let go of the handle to open doors, greet people or perform tasks, all the while keeping the crutch standing close to the body without dropping or dangling.
• Pivoting side-mounted handgrips minimize strain and maximize the use of upper body strength
• Large stable “footprint”
• Different treads for different activities
• Not left-side or right-side specific
• Slender discreet silhouette

The ElliptiPod Low-Cost Ergonomic Energy-Return Crutch brings age old crutch design into the 21st century.