7.2 - Equipment & Devices

Question 1

Describe the appropriate positioning for BIL axillary crutches

Answer 1

Axillary pad 2 in from axilla

15-30 deg elbow flexion w/ distal end of crutch 2 in lateral & 6 in anterior to feet

Question 2

Describe the appropriate positioning for Lofstrand crutches

Answer 2

Cuffs 1-1.5 inches below forearm

Question 3

What nerve can become damaged due to inappropriate fitting of axillary crutches?

Answer 3

Radial N

Question 4

Describe a 3 point gait pattern

Answer 4

BIL crutches w/ NWB of involved LE

Question 5

Describe a modified 3-point gait pattern

Answer 5

BIL crutches w/ partial WB of involved LE

Question 6

Describe a 4-point vs 2-point gait pattern

Answer 6

4-point = “4 events”

2-point = “2 events”

Question 7

If a handrail is available for stair training, when should this be used?

Answer 7

ALWAYS!

Regardless of side

Question 8

Describe the pressure sensitive areas of a transtibial socket

Answer 8

Fibular head
Tibial crest
Condyles
Distal tibia

Question 9

Describe the pressure sensitive areas of transfemoral sockets

Answer 9

Pubic symphysis
Perineum
Distal limb

Question 10

Potential causes of excessive knee flexion during early stance

Answer 10

Prosthetic:
- Firm heel cushion
- Excessive DF
- Anterior socket placement
- Shoe heel too high

Anatomical:
- Flexion contracture
- Weak quads

Question 11

Potential causes of excessive knee extension during early stance

Answer 11

Prosthetic:
- Excessive PF
- Soft heel cushion
- Posterior socket placement
- Shoe heel too low

Anatomical
- weak quads
- Extensor spasticity

Question 12

Potential causes of lateral trunk bending (toward prosthesis) w/ a transfemoral prosthesis

Answer 12

Short prosthesis
Sharp / high medial wall
Poor lateral wall

Weak / contracted abductors
Pain

Question 13

Describe a posting vs wedge foot orthosis

Answer 13

Posting –> inside the shoe (medial or lateral)

Wedge –> external modification (medial or lateral)

Question 14

What foot orthosis should be used for the following?

Flexible pes valgus
Rigid pes varus
Rigid forefoot valgus

Answer 14

Flexible pes valgus –> medial wedge

Rigid pes varus –> medial wedge

Rigid forefoot valgus –> lateral wedge

Question 15

When are individuals typically fit w/ a TLSO for scoliosis?

Answer 15

Cobb angle = 25-45 deg

Surgical intervention required of >45 deg

Question 16

With AFOs & prostheses, DF is associated with _____________

PF is associated with ______________

Answer 16

DF –> knee flexion

PF –> knee extension

Question 17

Describe the ‘Rule of 1-2 inches’ for w/c prescription

Answer 17

Hip Width + 2 in

Posterior thigh - 2 in

Leg length (lower leg & ankle) + 2 in = axle height
(want 2 in clearance from floor)

Hanging elbow height + 1 in for armrest height

Question 18

What is wheelchair “camber”?

Answer 18

Outward cambering / angle of the wheels

Allows for easier wheel access, improved agility

Used primarily for sports or high-level activity

Question 19

How often should w/c pressure reliefs be performed?

Answer 19

Every 15 min

Press-up, side lean, or deep forward lean