Crutches

noun

1. A device to assist in motion as a cane, especially one that provides support under the arm to reduce weight on a leg.

   "He walked on crutches for a month until the cast was removed from his leg."

2. Something that supports, often used negatively to indicate that it is not needed and causes an unhealthful dependency; a prop

   "Alcohol became a crutch to help him through the long nights; eventually it killed him."

3. A crotch; the area of body where the legs fork from the trunk.
4. A form of pommel for a woman's saddle, consisting of a forked rest to hold the leg of the rider.
5. A knee, or piece of knee timber.