Some people are injured or have diseases or disorders that require them to have assistance when walking. The most frequent types of walking assistance provided by physical therapists are canes and crutches.

Crutches

There are several types of techniques that can be used to maneuver with crutches. The various styles have advantages and disadvantages based on speed and stability.

Four-Point Crutch Gait

The four-point crutch gait is one of the sturdier styles because of the fact that four supporting points are in touch with the ground at all times. The four-point crutch gait begins by leading with the left crutch followed by the right foot and then the right crutch. Finally the left foot completes the motion and the process is repeated. This technique trades slow walking speed for stability.

Three-Point Crutch Gait

The three-point crutch gait is very effective for those who cannot put any weight onto one of their legs. The three-point leg gait requires exceptional balance and begins by moving the injured leg forward along with both crutches. The entire body’s weight is then placed on the crutches as the healthy leg is moved forward.

Two-Point Crutch Gait

The two-point crutch gait is done by moving the left crutch and right foot forward simultaneously followed by moving the right crutch and left foot forward simultaneously. This provides more walking speed than the four-point gait and is a good option for individuals who experience problems with both of their legs.

Swing-Through and Swing-To Crutch Gait

The swing-through crutch gait is the fastest of all the techniques available and is preformed by placing both crutches forward then swinging both feet past the crutches while putting the entire body’s weight on both of the crutches. The swing-to crutch gait is very similar to the swing-through method with the only exception being that the legs are not swung past the crutches but are swung to even with the crutches.

Tripod Crutch Gait

The tripod crutch gait is preformed by moving the right crutch forward followed by the left crutch. The legs are then dragged to even with the crutches. This method requires large amounts of energy to endure over extended distances, but provides excellent stability.

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