The word may signify one who is partially or totally disabled from using his limbs.
See The blind beggar dance, the cripple sing.
CRIPPLE, a. Lame.
CRIPPLE, v.t.
1. To lame; to deprive of the use of the limbs, particularly of the legs and feet.
2. To disable; to deprive of the power of exertion. We say, a fleet was crippled in the engagement.