The aim of this paper is to improve the design of a pair of axilla crutches through quality function deployment(QFD) and discomfort experiments. User needs for the crutches, as well as the engineering characteristics which have influence on the ergonomic quality of crutches were determined from the interview with many users. This information was entered in the house of quality, and the results show that the axillary pad and grip are the most important quality factors. And the results from the discomfort experiments confirmed the QFD output. A prototype reflecting the QFD results was proposed. The present study demonstrated how QFD approach can be a methodological tool geared to greater ergonomics consideration in product design.