Crutches Ashley Roberto ED 315 01 April 4

Crutches Ashley Roberto ED 315 -01 April 4, 2013

What Are Crutches? Assistive technology used to assist or support those whose ability to walk is affected by a disability or an injury

Background Information Since ancient times, humans have used crutch-like devices Present-day crutches evolved from basic “T” crutches

Types of Crutches Underarm Crutches Forearm Crutches

Types of Crutches Leg Support Crutches Platform Crutches

Types of Crutches Strutter Crutches

Who Can Use Crutches? Those with the following disabilities or impairments can use crutches: • Lower-limb injuries • Lower-limb surgery • Lower-limb amputations • Lower-limb paralysis • Arthritis • Cerebral palsy

Purpose • Reduce weight load on one of the legs • Increase support base to improve balance and stability • Helps those who cannot or who have difficulty walking

How Do Crutches Work?

Advantages • • Aids in walking Reduces recovery time Low cost Allows the benefits of upright movement and posture • Can be maneuvered in places that wheelchairs cannot go • (Forearm crutches) More hand movement Disadvantages • Limits upper body freedom (except leg support crutches) • Can strain the arms, upper body, and hands

Cost of Crutches • Underarm crutches: $15 to $40 • Forearm crutches: $40 to $100 • Leg support crutches: $450 +

Reliability Crutches are reliable The consumer has to make sure that he/she is using the appropriate device properly

Does the CNMI Have Access to Crutches? YES!

References Crutches cost. (2010, Septe). Retrieved from http: //health. costhelper. com/crutches. html Cunha, J. (2012, April 20). Crutches. Retrieved from http: //www. emedicinehealth. com/crutches/ article_em. htm