Citation

Joyce BM, Kirby RL. Am. Fam. Physician 1991; 43(2): 535-542.

Affiliation

Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1991, American Academy of Family Physicians)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

1990737

Abstract

Canes, crutches and walkers are safe and effective but generally underutilized therapeutic tools. These aids are most helpful to patients who have an unstable gait, whose muscles are weak or who require a reduction in the load on weight-bearing structures. An understanding of the biomechanics of ambulation aids provides insights into how and when these devices should be prescribed. The patient must have sufficient strength, balance and coordination to master the aid and should be trained to use it correctly.

Language: en