One leg swing through gait using two crutches. An analysis of the ground reaction forces and gait phases

Using a Force Plate the gait cycle for one leg swing-through gait of ten normal subjects on Canadian crutches was monitored, and a composite diagram of forces on the lower limb and both crutches was produced. In addition the relationship of the stance and swing phase for both the lower limb and crutches was studied and the percentage of these phases and their overlap included on the composite diagram. The average maximum vertical ground reaction to the leg was 1.32 body weight, 16 per cent higher than that reported for normal walking. The horizontal force on the lower limb in the direction of walking was 0.35 body weight, compared to 0.15 for normal walking. Vertical ground reaction to crutches was on average 0.54 body weight on the side of the landing leg and 0.51 on the contralateral side. Horizontal ground reaction on the crutches at right angles to the direction of ambulation was 0.09 body weight on the right and 0.08 on the left. The results were considered to indicate caution in the prescription of one leg swing-through gait in subjects with diseased bone and joints in the lower limb.