Cruches

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CRUTCHES It is one of the many ambulatory aid used to help people who have suffered an injury and/or disability to one of their feet, knees, ankles, or legs by transferring weight from the legs to the upper body for reasons ranging from short-term injuries to life-long disabilities. Crutches are made in all sizes, for adults and children. Some devices are adjustable to accommodate differences in height or it can be custom made to fit a particular individual. It is normally recommended by a doctor or a physical therapist to use temporarily to protect the injured area from further damage or it can be use by an individual with permanent disabilities for functional ambulation. Another thing to consider which is equally important are the crutch muscles. Promote strengthening exercise to the upper extremities to better prepare the patient with crutch ambulation. Types of Crutches: Lofstrand (Forearm) Crutch This …show more content…

Axillary crutch: In the standing position , the top of the crutch should extend 2 inches (about two finger widths) below the armpit (axilla) to a point on the floor 6 inches in front of your foot and 2 inches lateral to the foot. The handgrip should allows you to flex your elbow about 30°, enough to fully extend your elbow when you take a step. In the supine position(unable to stand), simply subtract 16 inches from your height or from the axilla to a point 6-8 inches lateral to the heel. Forearm crutch: Proper fit should allow you to flex your elbow 20°-30° while holding the handgrip. The crutch is positioned 6 inches in front and 2 inches lateral of your foot. The arm cuff should sit 1 inch to 1.5 inches below the olecranon process. Platform crutch: This crutch is measured 2 inches below the skin-fold of the armpit. The lower cuff is 0.5 in-1.5 inches below the back of the elbow to avoid bony contact on the

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