Crutch Walking Study Guide PDF

1\. List two types of crutches commonly used. Give an example of a condition that each would be used for. a. Axillary Crutches: after ligament damage to the knee or ankle b. Forearm Crutches: Paralysis of lower extremities (Cerebral Palsy) 2\. Explain how to measure crutches for a patient who c...

1\. List two types of crutches commonly used. Give an example of a condition that each would be used for. a. Axillary Crutches: after ligament damage to the knee or ankle b. Forearm Crutches: Paralysis of lower extremities (Cerebral Palsy) 2\. Explain how to measure crutches for a patient who can stand. 2inches below axilla; hand grip at level of greater trochanter, elbow bent at 15-30° angle [ ] [ ] 3\. Explain the following crutch gaits and indicate types of situations where each gait would be used. a. 2 point: Partial weight bearing. Move a crutch at the same time as the opposing leg. Used for patients with weak legs, but good coordination and arm strength. b. *3 point: **Non-weight bearing on affected/injured leg. Bear weight on both crutches, and then uninvolved leg. Used for leg fractures, knee surgery.*** *c. 4 points: Patient weight bearing. Each leg moved alternately with each opposing crutch. Patient has to be able to bear weight on both legs* c. *Swing-through and Swing-to: Weight-bearing. Advance crutches together, then swing both feet to or through the crutches. Use for paraplegics with supportive leg braces.* 4\. Explain to a patient who is not allowed to bear weight on his left foot how to go up and down stairs: Stairs: 'the good goes up, the bad goes down' UP: good leg up then pull bad leg and crutches. DOWN: Crutches and bad leg down, then good leg down. *5. Explain to a patient who is not allowed to bear weight on his left foot how to sit on and get up* *from a chair:* *from a chair: Hold both crutches on side of the **affected** leg. Grasp the arm of the chair with other hand, then raise/lower self.* *6. List at least 6 safety factors to be taught to a patient who will be using crutches:* - *No pressure on axillae (brachial nerve palsy)* - *Proper fit to avoid falls.* - *Inspect tips for wear through* - *Keep crutch tips dry* - *Inspect wooden crutches for cracks* - *Give list of where to get additional supplies.* 8/24