A comparison of energy expenditure and perceived exertion between standard axillary crutches, knee scooters, and a hands‐free crutch

Abstract

IntroductionAmbulation using standard axillary crutches (SACs) is associated with increased energy expenditure (EE) and decreased ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Using a hands‐free crutch displays potential for easier ADLs completion and reduction in energy requirements.ObjectivesTo determine if a hands‐free crutch (HFC) elicits lower EE and heart rate (HR), improvement in performance of ADLs, and decreased rating of perceived exertion (RPE) compared to common ambulatory devices.DesignA randomized crossover‐controlled trial.SettingUniversity community.ParticipantsTwenty healthy college students.Main Outcome MeasuresParticipants completed a 6‐minute walk (6MWT) at 50 m/min, an ADLs course, and a two‐flight stair climb with SACs, HFC, knee scooter (KS), and unassisted ambulation (UA). The order of trial conditions was randomized. EE, HR, time to complete ADLs course and stair climb, and RPE during each condition was obtained. One‐way ANOVAs were performed to compare EE, HR response, and RPE between the assistive devices and UA.ResultsIn all outcomes UA resulted in lower EE, HR, and RPE compared to all the assistive devices (p < 0.05). For the ADLs course, EE was the same for the three assistive devices, while HR was significantly lower for HFC compared to SACs and KS (p < 0.05). RPE for HFC and KS was lower than SACs (p < 0.05). For the 6MWT, each device significantly differed from the other devices for EE, HR, and RPE, with KS eliciting the lowest values, followed by HFC. For the stair climbing task, HFC elicited lower EE, HR, and RPE than SACs. Fourteen participants indicated their overall preference for HFC.ConclusionsIn individuals prescribed weight‐bearing restrictions, using a HFC may offer an easier and more preferred alternative to more commonly used SACs during ambulation, stair climbing, and other activities of daily living.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.