Ergonomically Designed Crutches Decrease Ground Reaction Forces, Joint Moments, and Underarm Pressure Compared to Standard Crutches During Walking

Studies show that crutch walking is slower than unassisted walking, requires more energy, and may introduce risk factors for injuries in the arms and/or the healthy leg. This study compared the differences between unassisted gait and crutch walking, and differences between standard and ergonomically designed crutches. Twenty healthy individuals walked across a walkway during unassisted gait and two crutch conditions (standard and ergonomic crutches). During crutch walking, the left leg was used for support, and the right foot was lifted off the ground. A motion capture system and in-ground force platforms were used for kinematic and kinetic data collection. Additionally, flexible pressure pads were utilized to record the underarm pressure during crutch walking. Subjective data were also recorded for the two designs of crutches. Crutch walking resulted in higher vertical, anterior, and posterior ground reaction forces (GRFs), and higher ankle plantarflexion, knee, and hip extension moments. Ergonomic crutches showed lower posterior foot GRFs, anterior and medial crutch GRFs, hip extension moments, and underarm pressures than standard crutches. Subjective surveys depicted higher comfort ratings for the ergonomic crutches, specifically under the arms. However, standard crutches were rated higher for walking with comments indicating that ergonomic crutches may require more time for familiarization.