Assistive Devices

Question 1

Crutches positioning

Answer 1

• 3 finger widths between axilla and top of crutch
• Hands on grips with elbows flexed at 30 degrees

Question 2

Non-weight bearing crutch walk

Answer 2

• Start with tripod position
• Move crutches and affected extremity
• Move unaffected leg beyond crutches
• Move both crutches then affected leg

Question 3

Weight bearing crutch walk

Answer 3

• Move crutches forward 1 step length
• Move affected leg forward leveled with crutch tips
• Move unaffected leg forward

Question 4

Cane sizing

Answer 4

• Patient wears shoes
• Correct length is measured from greater trochanter to floor

Question 5

Cane walking

Answer 5

• Hold cane on unaffected side
• Move cane forward 6-10 inches then move the weaker leg forward and then the unaffected leg

Question 6

Walker sizing

Answer 6

• Patient wears shoes
• Patient’s hands are even with hand grips when arms are dangling

Question 7

Walker walking

Answer 7

• Mover walker 12 inches
• Advance with affected leg