Axillary versus Forearm Crutches: A Prospective Cohort Comparing which is Superior for 3-Point Crutch Gait
https://doi.org/10.5704/MOJ.2107.006
- Author:
Yap WMQ
1
;
Hairodin Z
2
;
Kwek EBK
3
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
2. Department of Physiotherapy, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
3. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Woodlands Health Campus, Singapore
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
crutch, gait, axillary crutch, forearm crutch, 3-point
- From:Malaysian Orthopaedic Journal
2021;15(No.2):36-42
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: Two common crutches utilised for
orthopaedic rehabilitation include the axillary crutch and
forearm crutch, with either crutch providing weight transfer
through different mechanisms. This study aims to determine
which crutch is best for patients, with specific reference to
crutch gait and stability.
Materials and methods: This is a level 2 prospective cohort
study, recruiting 20 volunteers between 40 to 80 years old.
Participants underwent 3 stations in 3 point crutch gait:
straight line ambulation of 20m, timed-up-and-go-test, and
computerised dynamic posturography. Participants also
answered a subjective questionnaire on their crutch
preferences.
Results: Axillary crutches demonstrated a faster speed of
ambulation compared to forearm crutches (Axillary crutch
v=0.5m/s, Forearm crutch v=0.44m/s, p=0.002). There was a
lower increase in heart rate post activity for axillary crutches.
For the timed-up-and-go test, completing the circuit with
Axillary crutches was faster (t=63.06, p<0.001) versus the
forearm crutch (t=75.36, p<0.001). For computerised
dynamic posturography, participants recorded lower effort
scores for backward tilts when using axillary crutches
(39.13, p=0.0497) versus forearm crutches (42.03,
p=0.0497). Subjectively, majority of participants felt that
axillary crutches had an easier learning curve and were
superior in the areas of ambulation, balance and stability.
Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that axillary crutches
were superior to forearm crutches for 3-point crutch gait;
axillary crutches had a faster ambulation speed, required less
effort during use, provided superior stability and were the
preferred choice subjectively. This study would be helpful
for clinicians and therapists when prescribing mobility aids
to individuals with impaired gait.
- Full text:16.2021my1172.pdf
