Ambulatory Aids

Question 1

What degree of elbow flexion should be seen when using a cane or crutch?

Answer 1

20-30deg

Question 2

Can you use a small based quad cane on stairs?

Answer 2

yes, can’t use wide based quad cane

Question 3

Where should the cuff be placed for forearm crutches?

Answer 3

1-1.5in below elbow; should cover proximal third of forearm

Question 4

How many inches between the axilla and the crutch pad should there be for axillary crutches?

Answer 4

about 2 finger widths (2in)

Question 5

What are the negative factors for prescribing a patient a walker?

Answer 5

increased flexor posture, no reciprocal arm swing

Question 6

What does a rollator provide that a standard walker doesn’t for gait?

Answer 6

increased speed, step-through pattern

Question 7

What are typical gait deviations seen in an obese patients?

Answer 7

decreased knee flexion, greater hip abduction and hip rotation, difficulty rotating from side to side

Question 8

A patient using loftstrand crutches with a reciprocal pattern, so that the lower limb and crutch hit the ground at the same time is demonstrating what -point of gait?

Answer 8

2-point gait

Question 9

A patient using axillary crutches d/t NWB status will demonstrate what type of -point gait?

Answer 9

3-point gait

- crutch and crutch, then uninvolved swings through or to (3 points of contact)

Question 10

What point-gait system provides the most stability (but is also the slowest)?

Answer 10

4 point gait

Question 11

Body weight support above what % of BW is contraindicated, as it interferes with normal stepping in gait?

Answer 11

> 55%