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Related Experiment Videos

Canes, crutches and walkers.

B M Joyce1, R L Kirby

  • 1Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

American Family Physician
|February 1, 1991
PubMed
Summary

Canes, crutches, and walkers are safe, effective mobility aids that are underutilized. Proper understanding of biomechanics and patient training ensures optimal use for those with gait instability or weakness.

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Area of Science:

  • Rehabilitation Medicine
  • Biomechanics
  • Assistive Technology

Background:

  • Mobility aids like canes, crutches, and walkers are recognized as safe and effective therapeutic tools.
  • Despite their benefits, these ambulation aids are frequently underutilized in clinical practice.
  • Patients with gait instability, muscle weakness, or those needing reduced load on weight-bearing structures can significantly benefit from these devices.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the therapeutic value of canes, crutches, and walkers.
  • To emphasize the importance of understanding the biomechanics of ambulation aids for proper prescription.
  • To underscore the necessity of patient training for effective and safe use of mobility aids.

Main Methods:

  • Review of biomechanical principles related to ambulation and assistive devices.
  • Analysis of patient-specific factors influencing the prescription of mobility aids.
  • Emphasis on the role of patient assessment for strength, balance, and coordination.

Main Results:

  • Canes, crutches, and walkers are proven safe and effective for improving mobility and reducing joint load.
  • Understanding the biomechanics of gait and how aids alter it is crucial for appropriate selection and prescription.
  • Successful utilization requires patients to possess adequate strength, balance, and coordination, along with proper training.

Conclusions:

  • Mobility aids are valuable, underused therapeutic interventions.
  • Prescription should be guided by biomechanical principles and patient-specific capabilities.
  • Effective patient training is essential for maximizing the safety and efficacy of canes, crutches, and walkers.

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