Assistive devices

Assistive devices are used for various reasons for a variety of people and if not properly fitted can be a pain to deal with. These devices are used to help with decreased balance, strength, and stability, and to assist with balance and security. When fitting the device to the client, it is very important to make sure you have the height of each handle or rest in line with the right body landmark. This helps make sure no compensatory adjustments are being made such as leaning froward/hunching over or elevating shoulders. Another reason fitting the client is important is to decrease the risk of falls or injuries while using the device. The fitting for an assistive device is always a good time to educate your client and family members on the proper height it should be and how to make adjustments they need to be made.

When fitting your client for a cane or a rolling walker, you always want to make sure the client is standing straight up looking forward. You want the handgrip in line with the greater trochanter just below the hip at the level of the ulna styloid and wrist crease. In order for these measurements to be right the client should be wearing shoes, with their elbow flexed between 20 and 30 degrees, and shoulders relaxed and not elevated.

For a platform walker, the platform surface should be positioned so the client can bear weight through the forearm when the elbow is flexed to 90 degrees and the client is standing tall with the scapula relaxed. The proximal ulna should be positioned 1 to 2 inches off the platform surface to avoid nerve compression. The handle should be positioned slightly medially for a comfortable grip while the forearm is resting on the platform.

For axillary crutches, the length of the crutch should be around the same length as the distance from the distance from the client's forearm to fingertips on opposite hand. the arm pad should be 5 cm away from axilla and the handgrips should be in line with the greater trochanter, ulna styloid, and wrist crease.

For loftstand crutches, you want to make sure the armcuff goes around the proximal forearm and the handgrips are facing forward and in line with the greater trochanter, ulna styloid, and wrist crease with the elbows flexed to 20-30 degrees and shoulders relaxed.