Name of the Procedure:

Crutches underarm, wood, adjustable or fixed, pair, with pads, tips and handgrips

Summary

Underarm crutches are mobility aids that help individuals with leg injuries or disabilities move around without putting weight on their legs. These wooden crutches come with adjustable or fixed lengths and include pads, tips, and handgrips for user comfort and safety.

Purpose

Underarm crutches are used to assist mobility for those who cannot bear weight on their legs due to injury, surgery, or disability. The goal is to help patients move independently while minimizing discomfort and facilitating recovery.

Indications

• Leg fractures or sprains
• Post-surgical recovery
• Neurological conditions affecting leg strength
• Temporary or long-term lower limb disabilities

Preparation

• The patient should wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
• They may be advised to practice using the crutches under supervision.
• No fasting or special medication adjustments are typically required.

Procedure Description

1. Fitting the Crutches: A healthcare professional measures the patient for the correct crutch height and adjusts the crutches accordingly.
2. Instruction: The patient is taught how to use the crutches properly. This includes placing the crutch tips a few inches in front and to the side of each foot, using their hands to support their weight, and ensuring the underarm pads do not press directly into their armpits.
3. Walking: Patients are instructed to move the crutches forward, then swing their body through, stepping with their good leg while the crutches support the injured leg.

Duration

The fitting and initial instruction session typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or physical therapy office.

Personnel

• Physical therapist or trained healthcare professional for fitting and instruction.
• Occasional input from a nurse or medical assistant.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Discomfort from improper use, underarm soreness, hand or wrist pain.
• Rare Risks: Falls, pressure sores under the arms if used incorrectly.

Benefits

• Improved mobility and independence
• Protection of the injured leg, facilitating proper healing
• Immediate improvement in ability to perform daily activities

Recovery

• Follow-up visits may be scheduled to ensure proper use and to adjust the crutches as needed.
• Patients are advised to rest and avoid putting weight on the injured leg.
• Recovery times vary based on the underlying condition but generally range from a few weeks to several months.

Alternatives

• Wheelchairs: Good for those with limited upper body strength but may restrict mobility in certain environments.
• Knee Scooters: Suitable for lower leg injuries but require good balance.
• Forearm Crutches: Offer more arm support but can be harder to use.

Patient Experience

• During: Initial discomfort and a learning curve in using the crutches correctly.
• After: Increased mobility with soreness that typically decreases over time as the patient becomes accustomed to using the crutches.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if discomfort arises; proper use of padding can minimize soreness.