I went to buy a crock pot last fall when it was obvious that I wouldn't be able to afford propane for heat and wanted to avoid using the cookstove. I shopped around and ended up buying an electric skillet instead.

My only experience with crockpot food was assorted meals I'd been fed. There are probably ways to keep from cooking gray meat..but for me, the skillet seemed easier. I like the option of choosing the temperature.
I've really put it to work.

There are a LOT of crock pot styles these days! I was tempted by one that came with two crocks.
Whichever kind you choose, I hope you're as pleased with it as I am with my adventure in a similar direction..if your arm is still a problem, you might look at skillets while you're shopping..they're considerably lighter to heft around.