Assistive Devices
There are many reasons to why a patient might need an assistive device such as surgery, or a disability. One of the important things to remember when providing an assistive device for someone is fitting them correctly. One reason to appropriately fit someone for an assistive device is for comfort. Not only is comfort important, but so is functionality. With comfort and functionality, you also have to watch for precautions to whatever the patient is being fitted for. If they are being fitted for a device post surgery, there may can only be one specific device they can use. Even if there is only one device accessible, if you fit it to them correctly, it can still be comfortable and functional to your patient.
For a cane, you want to make sure your patient uses the cane on the opposite side of the affected leg in order to have stability, support and balance. The top of the cane and handle with be in place with the greater trochanter.
For axillary crutches, you would make sure the top of crutches are about a hands width away (~5cm) from your armpit. You should never rely on the crutches to hold you up through your armpits. This could cause damage and pain.
For loft strand crutches, the hand grips are placed at the greater trochanter and the arm-cuff's wrap around the proximal arm and are about 2/3 up the arm. The hand grips should always be facing forward for comfort and functionality. These are used mostly for long term disabilities.
For a platform walker, the platforms would be positioned so the weight is distributed through the forearm and the elbow is bent at 90 degrees. This would be for someone who can't bear weight through their hand or wrist or who has poor trunk support.
For a rolling walker, the hand grips would be at the greater trochanter and it will have a seat, brakes, and wheels for someone to sit who gets fatigued easily. The brakes are very important for having stable support when needed.
For a cane, you want to make sure your patient uses the cane on the opposite side of the affected leg in order to have stability, support and balance. The top of the cane and handle with be in place with the greater trochanter.
For axillary crutches, you would make sure the top of crutches are about a hands width away (~5cm) from your armpit. You should never rely on the crutches to hold you up through your armpits. This could cause damage and pain.
For loft strand crutches, the hand grips are placed at the greater trochanter and the arm-cuff's wrap around the proximal arm and are about 2/3 up the arm. The hand grips should always be facing forward for comfort and functionality. These are used mostly for long term disabilities.
For a platform walker, the platforms would be positioned so the weight is distributed through the forearm and the elbow is bent at 90 degrees. This would be for someone who can't bear weight through their hand or wrist or who has poor trunk support.
For a rolling walker, the hand grips would be at the greater trochanter and it will have a seat, brakes, and wheels for someone to sit who gets fatigued easily. The brakes are very important for having stable support when needed.
Good work!
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