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 patients recovering from a broken ankle or managing a non-weight bearing restriction, the Freedom Leg eliminates the hand-use limitations of traditional crutches, making it possible to continue working safely and efficiently.
Can You Work on a Non Weight Bearing Foot?
Most people who have a broken ankle or other foot injury will need to use crutches or a knee scooter for some time before they are able to walk regularly again. This complicates things for anyone who has a physically active job.
It is certainly possible to work while using crutches. However, use of the hands is very limited, making it dangerous and difficult.
Joel Smith and the team at Forward Mobility Inc. designed the Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch) specifically so that people asking "can I work with a broken ankle?" can not only work, but work efficiently and safely — with both hands completely free.
Working With a Broken Leg
Similar to working with a broken ankle, working with a broken leg is very challenging and can be dangerous. Unless you are able to sit and use only your arms, it will be difficult to maneuver your crutches and work at the same time.
Working while non weight bearing is, under normal circumstances, almost impossible. With the Freedom Leg, however, it is simple and easy!
Can You Work With a Walking Boot?
The Freedom Leg is different from traditional crutches, in that it is a leg brace that puts all of the movement back into the upper leg. This eliminates the need for hand-held crutches, freeing up the hands to work.
The Freedom Leg is designed in such a way that the pressure is on the back of the thigh, and is compatible with a boot. This makes it possible to walk naturally, while you work or while going up and down stairs.
Working Out With a Broken Leg
Whether you are working outdoors or working out for exercise, having free mobility while using your body is important. Non-weight bearing and working out don't usually go together!
But if you have a broken leg or injured ankle and still need to work and exercise, the Freedom Leg makes it possible to use your arms freely while walking on both legs. Exercising after ankle surgery is an important part to maintaining strength and healing.
How Does the Freedom Leg Work?
The new, third-generation Freedom Leg Brace is the most comfortable and durable, and makes it possible for anyone with a broken ankle, knee injury, broken leg, or an amputation or other medical condition to walk on both legs without the use of crutches.
You are able to walk on the non-weight bearing leg or foot, without actually putting weight on it. The brace is completely hands-free, and removes all weight from the knee to the foot. It can be worn with a boot or cast and can be reimbursed by most insurance companies.
Check out our testimonials to see how other people have incorporated the Freedom Leg into their lives!
Who Can Use the Freedom Leg?
Anyone with a leg, knee, or foot injury or amputation can use the Freedom Leg. Some of the reasons people use this revolutionary brace include the following:
- Surgeries on the leg, foot, or knees
- Fractures on the leg, foot, or knees
- Foot or ankle fusion
- Amputations
- Plantar wounds
- Anyone wondering — "can I work with a broken ankle?"
The Freedom Leg can change your life by enabling you to do all of your normal activities, from walking up and down stairs to strolling with your family to working — all hands-free. It really is a worthwhile investment!
Learn how the Freedom Leg is the best crutch for knee surgery or ankle/foot surgery as well as so much more.
The Freedom Leg comes in various sizes and a money back guarantee, so you can try it at no risk. Are you ready to start working again?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work with a broken ankle?
Yes, many people return to work with a broken ankle — but the feasibility depends heavily on your job type and the mobility aid you choose. Traditional crutches occupy both hands, making most physical tasks difficult or impossible. The Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch), developed by Joel Smith of Forward Mobility Inc., transfers weight to the thigh and leaves both hands completely free, allowing workers in a wide variety of roles — from warehouse staff to healthcare workers to tradespeople — to continue working safely while non weight bearing.
Can you work while non weight bearing?
Working while non weight bearing is challenging with conventional crutches because they restrict hand and arm use. The Freedom Leg brace resolves this by attaching to the thigh and lower leg, suspending the injured foot off the ground while the user walks naturally on the upper leg. This design allows full use of both hands, making it practical to carry tools, equipment, or other items while remaining fully non weight bearing on the injured foot or ankle.
Is the Freedom Leg compatible with a walking boot or cast?
Yes. The Freedom Leg is specifically designed to be compatible with walking boots and casts. Because the brace applies pressure to the back of the thigh rather than the foot or lower leg, it works alongside most orthopedic boots. You can see how to walk in a walking boot without crutches using the Freedom Leg for a step-by-step guide.
Does insurance cover the Freedom Leg?
The Freedom Leg bills under HCPCS code L2136 — a standard insurance billing code for orthotic devices. Many insurance plans, including Medicare and private insurers, may provide reimbursement under this code. It is always recommended to verify coverage with your specific insurer before purchase. The Freedom Leg also comes with a money-back guarantee, so you can try it at no financial risk.
Can I use the Freedom Leg if I have a broken leg (not just an ankle)?
Yes. The Freedom Leg is suitable for a range of lower-limb injuries and conditions, including broken legs, broken ankles, knee injuries, foot fractures, foot or ankle fusion, plantar wounds, and lower-leg amputations. The device supports non-weight bearing mobility regardless of whether the injury is at the ankle, foot, or lower leg level.
Can I exercise or stay active while using the Freedom Leg?
Staying active during recovery is important for maintaining strength and supporting healing, particularly after ankle surgery. The Freedom Leg allows for natural walking movement and leaves both arms free, making low-impact activity much more accessible than with standard crutches. Whether you are working out for exercise or simply staying mobile at home, the Freedom Leg supports an active recovery. Always consult your physician or physical therapist before beginning any exercise program while non weight bearing.
How does the Freedom Leg differ from a knee scooter?
A knee scooter requires the user to place the injured leg on a padded platform and propel the scooter with the good leg — limiting use to relatively flat, smooth surfaces and still requiring at least one hand on the handlebar. The Freedom Leg, by contrast, is worn on the body, requires no handlebar, and functions on stairs, uneven terrain, and in virtually any environment where normal walking is required. It is a fully hands-free solution that restores natural gait and bilateral arm use.
Check out our other blogs on navigating non-weight bearing with the Freedom Leg!
Best Crutches for Non-Weight Bearing
Best Crutches for Non Weight Bearing on Stairs
Best Non Weight Bearing Device
Best Way to Shower with Non Weight Bearing Leg
How to Survive Non-Weight Bearing
How to Use Crutches While Non-Weight Bearing
How to Walk with Crutches Non Weight Bearing
