Article

Axillary and forearm crutches are commonly utilized in the treatment
of foot and ankle injuries. In order to decrease the energy expenditure during
mobilization, to prevent upper extremity complications, and to let the upper
extremity free for other usages, we designed a new orthosis. The study is
conducted to compare walking energy parameters of this newly designed orthosis
with the axillary and forearm crutches. METHODS: 10 healthy young
male volunteers walked on treadmill with three different orthoses in randomized
order. Oxygen expenditure, oxygen cost, rate of perceived exertion (Borg scale),
and observer stability assessment were analyzed. RESULTS: Concerning oxygen
consumption, perceived exertion, and observer stability assessment, the new
device was found superior to the other devices (P<0.05). The new orthosis was
superior to forearm crutches concerning oxygen cost (P=0.027) but not
significantly different from the axillary crutches (P=0.062). DISCUSSION:
Compared to frequently used orthoses, the developed device provides mobilization
using less or similar amount of energy. Additionally it spares one upper
extremity to be used for other activities.
CI - Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS