Article

Supporting weight on the upper support of crutches is not recommended because it
can lead to axillary nerve damage. Despite this warning, improper axillary
loadings may still occur because of a lack of arm strength or fatigue. It is
generally accepted that improper use of conventional axillary crutches
contributes to axillary nerve damage, but surprisingly there are no studies
characterizing axillary support/underarm configurations. In this study, we
compared traditional and horizontal axillary support designs by measuring various
biomechanical parameters on the axillary support during a swing-through gait
while supporting weight on the axillary support. Subjects found the axillary
support that remains horizontal to be more comfortable than the axillary support
of axillary crutches. The higher perceived comfort may be attributed to the lower
force and contact area, both average and maximum, developed on the horizontal
axillary support and/or shorter excursion of the position of the center of force
during a stride. These findings suggest that avoiding all weight bearing on the
axillary support may be an overly conservative recommendation for supports that
remain horizontal. Individuals with insufficient arm strength may benefit by
considering this type of support, but because further study is needed, a physical
therapist should be consulted.

Langue : ANGLAIS