A comparison of efficiency of three types of crutches using oxygen consumption.

Abstract

Because the axillary crutch can cause axillary artery thrombosis and crutch palsy, the elbow crutch is more frequently used. Canadian crutches combine features of both the axilla and elbow crutches. A previous study examined any advantages in terms of energy cost using heart rate. The present study re-evaluates the energy cost by using the measurement of oxygen consumption. The study further suggests that the Canadian crutches have advantages in terms of energy cost.