Medical Minute: How to fit and use Crutches, Canes, and Walkers

How to fit and use Crutches, Canes, and Walkers

Welcome to another Medical Minute segment. Here, Haeleigh Little, a certified orthotic fitter from Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group reviews how to properly fit and use crutches, canes, and walkers.

WHAT IS THE #1 THING PATIENTS STRUGGLE WITH WHEN FITTING WALKING ASSISTANCE DEVICES?

The number one thing patients struggle with is getting the height correct. The height for all of these devices will depend on body type. Most crutches will have markers that will allow for adjustments, but each body is different. Fit can change depending on each individual’s body length, leg length, and arm length.

WHAT HAPPENS IF ANY PIECE OF EQUIPMENT IS NOT FITTED PROPERLY?

If a piece of equipment is not fitted properly, then the ultimate concern is the risk of injury. If the crutch or cane is not properly fitted to a patient’s particular height, you risk injury to the shoulders, elbows, and wrists because you are now relying on those parts of the body to walk.

HOW TO FIT CRUTCHES

Typically, you will want your crutches to sit approximately two or three finger widths below the armpit. If the crutches are too short, you can risk putting excessive pressure on internal structures and muscles within the armpit. Next, you will want to ensure the crutch allows for a slight bend in the elbow, that way in the case of a fall, you do not hyperextend your arm, potentially causing injury.

HOW TO FIT CANES AND WALKERS

When fitting a cane, hold your arm down at your side, the top of the cane should hit at your wrist. You can do the same for measuring walkers, however you will want it to hit a bit above your wrist to compensate for slight bend your elbows as you walk with the device.

ANY OTHER TIPS?

The biggest tip we recommend for all patients to follow is: go slow, listen to your body, and be aware of your surroundings when using any form of walking assistance equipment.

HOW CAN SOMEONE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?

To schedule an appointment, please call the office at 719-632-7669. Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group does require a prescription for walking assistance devices so you will want to make sure you have talked to either your orthopedic physician or family physician prior to scheduling your appointment.
With these tips, you can safely fit crutches, canes, and walkers, and be on the path toward healing.

PhysiciansEric K Jepson

Eric K Jepson, DO

As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Jepson’s specializes in the treatment of complex knee and hip problems, revision surgery, and new procedures for the treatment of arthritis.

> Eric K Jepson, DO

Tyler R. Bron, MD

Tyler R. Bron, MD

Dr. Bron has completed a fellowship in Adult Reconstruction, specializing in the treatment of arthritic hip and knee conditions.

>Tyler R. Bron, MD

 

Theodore L. Stringer, MD

Theodore L. Stringer, MD

Dr. Stringer focuses on total joint replacement and arthritis management of the hip and knee.

>Theodore L. Stringer, MD

Read More

Orthopedics & Prosthetics Colorado Springs: Caring for our Military

Orthopedics & Prosthetics Colorado Springs: Caring for our Military

The Colorado Springs area is home to several military installations. At Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group, we are proud to be of service to these men and women just as they have been to our country. For years our doctors have provided these soldiers, veterans, and their families with orthopedic care and specialty services such as high-quality prosthetics for amputees. Whether troops just returning from war or veterans of wars long past, at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group, we treat all types of acute and chronic orthopedic injuries, from complex combat injuries and loss of limbs, to back pain, sprains, and everything in between.

Orthopedics Colorado Springs

Doctor and patient with orthopedic leg braceA military career is a rewarding one that may bring with it different injuries and chronic conditions. From jumping out of planes to running with heavy packs, the life of a serviceman or servicewoman is hard on a body. At Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group we have specialists to help. These include:

Our trained physicians will treat you with compassion and respect and can offer the highest quality of care for orthopedics Colorado Springs.

Prosthetics Colorado Springs

Audubon Orthotic & Prosthetic Services has been providing quality care to the residents of Colorado Springs since 2000. The staff is highly qualified and ready to serve our military veterans with personalized care in a timely manner and in a comfortable environment. The specialists at Audubon understand how devastating it is to lose a limb. They are able to help patients regain their function and self-confidence with a high quality, durable prosthesis. Within their expansive state-of-the-art lab, they can design, fit, and fabricate custom prostheses for the lower extremity (leg) and upper extremity (arm). For prosthetics Colorado Springs, Audubon is the the leader in this field.

Caring for our Military

At Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group, our care goes even further than simply treating injured troops. We know that a debilitating injury affects the whole family, and we work with all family members – even extended relatives who may be caregivers – to help everyone adjust after a loved one comes home with these types of injuries. To help restore function, mobility, and independence, we also provide world-class rehabilitation. Our physical and occupational therapy programs are tailored for each individual to meet his or her goals. Give us a call today so we can get you back on the road to recovery, and thank you for your service!

Read More