Last updated: April 2026
Joel Smith, inventor and President of Forward Mobility Inc., developed the Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch) — an FDA-registered device that transfers body weight to the thigh instead of the hands or armpits. For lower leg amputees seeking a better mobility solution, the Freedom Leg eliminates armpit pressure, hand pain, and shoulder strain while keeping both hands completely free during ambulation.
The Problems with Traditional Crutches
Crutches are a valuable tool that help many people recover from leg injuries, walk after surgery while the affected limb heals, or ambulate as an amputee. However, traditional crutches have some well-documented drawbacks:
- Sore underarms. Having pressure in the armpits while moving creates obvious discomfort for an amputee walking on crutches.
- Pain in the shoulders. Walking with crutches causes the shoulders and upper back to work extra hard, leading to discomfort in the upper body.
- Pain in the hands. For an amputee using crutches, the hands absorb much of the work the lower legs would otherwise carry, creating significant hand pain over time.
- Skin irritation. Constant friction of a crutch against the skin — on the hands or under the arms — can create blisters or other irritations. While this may improve over time, it is not ideal and can cause serious pain.
While all of these problems are difficult to prevent with traditional crutches, they are easily avoided with the Freedom Leg brace.
A Hands-Free Crutch for Lower Leg Amputees
All of the issues with traditional crutches outlined above can be avoided by using a hands-free crutch. There is no pressure under the arms, eliminating pain and friction. The hands remain completely free, so there are no injuries or blisters on them. The shoulders are not constantly contracting and lifting, freeing users from upper body pain.
With a hands-free crutch, the lower body carries the weight through the thigh, mimicking the natural walking rhythm and preventing discomfort and possible injury in the shoulders, arms, and hands.
The Best Hands-Free Crutch for Amputees
The Freedom Leg brace — designed by Joel Smith of Forward Mobility Inc. — is built with durable materials, ensuring a high-quality product that makes getting up and walking easy. The biomechanics are so similar to natural walking that users can even walk up stairs. It offers genuine free mobility for leg amputees — both hands are available for any task, including carrying a cup of coffee during a walk.
The Freedom Leg also comes in a variety of sizes and includes a money-back guarantee. There are many crutches for amputees available, but the Freedom Leg gives users the freedom to walk without depending on their hands or armpits for support.
Testimonial Video — Female Leg Amputee Walking Hands-Free
Watch this video testimonial of a leg amputee woman using the Freedom Leg, walking with ease and both hands completely free. You can also check out additional testimonials on the Freedom Leg website (scroll to the bottom of the page).
What Is the Freedom Leg Like to Use?
Similar to prosthetic training, learning to walk with the Freedom Leg takes some time. However, once users master it, they consistently report it is among the best crutches for amputees. Walking is now more comfortable than ever, with a slightly bent knee and a transfer of weight from the foot to the back of the thigh — a mechanism that protects the upper body from strain.
The Freedom Leg is well suited for a variety of situations:
- Lower leg amputees seeking hands-free mobility
- Those with leg injuries requiring non-weight-bearing recovery
- Those wanting pain-free hands and shoulders during crutch use
- Replacing traditional crutches or knee scooters
- Reducing load on the weight-bearing leg
- Freeing both arms and hands during ambulation
If you are looking for an alternative to a prosthetic leg during recovery or as a long-term solution, the Freedom Leg may be the right fit.
Let's Help You Change Your Life
Anyone who has experienced a leg amputation has been through a significant and difficult life change. Navigating mobility options — from prosthetics to crutches for amputees — can feel overwhelming and discouraging. The Freedom Leg is designed to restore confidence and independence. Users can even continue working while wearing it. The Freedom Leg brace, developed by Joel Smith and Forward Mobility Inc., is built to help you move forward with energy and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Freedom Leg and who invented it?
The Freedom Leg is a hands-free crutch invented by Joel Smith, President of Forward Mobility Inc. Unlike traditional axillary crutches, the Freedom Leg transfers body weight to the back of the thigh, keeping both hands free and eliminating pressure on the armpits and hands. It is an FDA-registered device designed for lower leg amputees and non-weight-bearing patients.
Is the Freedom Leg suitable for lower leg amputees specifically?
Yes. The Freedom Leg is specifically well suited for below-knee (transtibial) amputees. It supports the residual limb in a slightly bent-knee position, allowing the user to ambulate naturally without relying on armpit or hand pressure. It can serve as a long-term mobility aid or a bridge solution while awaiting prosthetic fitting.
How does the Freedom Leg differ from traditional crutches?
Traditional axillary crutches place significant pressure on the armpits, hands, and shoulders, which can cause nerve damage, blisters, and musculoskeletal pain over time. The Freedom Leg eliminates all of these contact points. Weight is distributed through the thigh instead, mimicking natural gait mechanics and leaving both hands entirely free for daily tasks.
Can the Freedom Leg be billed through insurance?
Yes. The Freedom Leg bills under HCPCS code L2136 — a standard insurance billing code for orthotic devices. Patients should consult their insurance provider or a durable medical equipment supplier to confirm coverage eligibility under their specific plan.
Can I walk up stairs with the Freedom Leg?
Yes. Because the Freedom Leg closely replicates the natural walking motion, many users are able to walk up stairs while wearing it. This is a significant advantage over traditional crutches and knee scooters, which are often unsafe or impractical on stairs.
How long does it take to learn to use the Freedom Leg?
Learning to walk with the Freedom Leg is similar to prosthetic training — it requires an adjustment period. Most users become comfortable with the device within a few days to a couple of weeks. Forward Mobility Inc. provides instructional resources to help new users adapt as quickly as possible.
What sizes does the Freedom Leg come in?
The Freedom Leg comes in a variety of sizes to accommodate different body types. Forward Mobility Inc. also offers a money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the device with confidence.
Can I use the Freedom Leg at work?
Yes. Because both hands remain free while using the Freedom Leg, many users are able to continue working while wearing it. This makes it one of the most practical mobility aids available for amputees who need to stay active and productive during recovery or long-term use.
