walking aid provision Flashcards
how to perform
set crutch height, demonstrate, explain, observe, correct/encourage
set: crutch from bottom of shoe to radial styloid
2 crutches: hold in H with 1 hand, stand up, thread through, hold with other hand, thread through, separate
hop to: crutches first, hop to line
step to: affected side first
step through: with good leg
1 crutch: on good side
stairs: good to heaven, bad to hell,
up: good leg, crutches, bad leg
down: crutches, bad leg, good leg
turn slowly with space
4 point gait/marching: opposite crutch with opposite foot, don’t overstretch
frame: move to edge of chair, 1 hand on frame, 1 hand on chair, lean forward to stand, balance before walking, walk into frame with bad foot, lift frame
sitting down: back of chair touching back of legs
contraindications
MSK: trauma to wrist - use gutter crutch
CR: illness
CV: blood pressure instability, disease
N: can’t understand instructions
dizziness
principles
gait dependent on weight-bearing, energy level, body strength, balance and coordination, type of walking aid
2 physios for safety
Proper Sizing and Adjustment
Individualized Approach
Gradual Progression - make least physically demanding
Consider the individual’s living environment and daily activities when selecting a walking aid.
affected side first
1 crutch: on good side
good to heaven, bad to hell
turn slowly with space
don’t overstretch
rational
improve mobility, safety & fall prevention, pain reduction by distributing weight to reduce stress on bones, energy conservation, functional independence, rehabilitation & recovery
physiological effects
healing fractures
improve ability of msk system, strengthens, increase mobility, ROM
NS - coordination, re-learning functional movements, proprioceptive, visual and vestibular systems, cognitive function
structures
MSK, using arm strength + good foot/leg by weight bearing on good side
protecting bad leg/foot
NS - motor relearning
proprioception, vestibular, visual systems
