Last, August 29, 2011 we had a retun demo on how to use mechanical aids for ambulation

which includes canes, walkers & crutches. This devices are used for ambulatory purposes. It
was just really funny coz I was able to memorize all the steps as well as the procedure on how
to do each steps. But then, when it was my turn to have my demo, I did the first step right and
got confused when i repeat the steps..so it was a minus points..in all i had 6 minus points..thats
why in a score of 50 i only got 44 score..This steps are really important to remember coz it will
be part in our TESDA Assessment examination in order to have a certificate as a Professional
Caregiver after taking the course. All caregiver students or even nurses that take NC II for
Professional Caregiver should remember this steps...and in order for me not to forget this steps,
i decided to write it her in my blog..

CANES

****When Maximum Support is Required*****

1. Position the cane on the stronger side of the body. Then do the tripod position (6 inches to
the side and 6 inches to the front).
2. Move the cane forward about 30 cm, or a distance that is comfortable while the body weight
is borne by both legs,
3. Then move the affected (weak) leg forward to the cane while the weight is borne by the cane
& stronger leg.
4. Then move the unaffected (stronger) leg forward ahead of the cane & weak leg while the
weight is borne by the cane & weak leg.
5. Repeat 2, 3 & 4 steps.

****As You Become Stronger & Require Less Support****

1. Position the cane on the stronger side of the body. Then do the tripod position (6 inches to
the side and 6 inches to the front.)
2.Move the cane & weak leg forward at the same time, while the weight is borne by the
stronger leg.
3. Move the stronger leg forward, while the weight is borne by the cane & the weak leg.

CRUTCH USE

When using crutches the weight of your body should be borne by the arms rather than the
axillae. Continual pressure on the axillae can injure the radial nerve and eventually cause crutch
palsy, a weakness of the muscles of the forearm, wrist and hand.

Maintain an erect posture as much as possible to prevent strain on muscles & joint & to
maintain balance.

****Four-Point Alternate Gait****

1. Tripod position.
2. Move the right crutch ahead a suitable distance such as 10-15 cm.
3. Move the left foot forward, preferably to the level of the left crutch.
4. Move the left crutch forward.
5. Move the right foot forward.
6. Repeat steps 2, 3, 4 & 5.

****Three-Point Gait****

-To use this gait, the client must be able to bear the entire body weight on the unaffected leg.
1. Tripod position (6 inches to the side & 6 inches to the front.
2. Move both crutches & the weaker leg forward.
3. Move the stronger leg forward.

****Two-Point Alternate Gait****

-This gait Is faster than the four-point gait. It requires more balance because only two points
support the body at one time.

1. Tripod position (6 inches to the side & 6 inches to the front).

2. Move the left crutch & the right foot forward together.
3. Move the right crutch & the left foot ahead together.

****Swing-To Gait****

-The swing gaits are used by clients w/ paralysis of the legs & hips. Prolonged use of this gaits
result in atrophy of the unused muscles.

1. Tripod position (6 inches to the side & 6 inches to the front).

2. Move both crutches ahead together.

3. Lift body weight by the arms & swing to the crutches.

****Swing-Through Gait****

-This gait requires considerable skill, strength & coordination.

1. Tripod position (6 inches to the side & 6 inches to the front).

2. Move both crutches forward together
3. Lift body weight by the arms & swing through & beyond the crutch.

****Going Up Stairs****
1. Tripod position at the bottom of the stairs.
2. Move the unaffected leg onto the step.
3. Move the crutches & affected leg up to the step.
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3.

****Going Down Stairs****

1. Assume the tripod position at the top of the stairs.

2. Move the crutches & the affected leg down to the next step.

WALKERS

****When Maximum Support is Required****

1. Move the walker 6 inches to the front.

2. Then move the walker ahead about 15 cm while your body weight is borne by both legs.
3. Then move the right foot up to the walker while your body weight is borne by the left leg.
4. Next, move the left foot up to the right foot while you body weight is borne by the right leg &
both arms.

****If one leg is Weaker than the Other****

1. Move the walker 6 inches to the front.

2. Move the walker & the weak leg ahead together about 15 cm while your weight is borne by
the stronger leg.
3. Then move the stronger leg ahead while your weight is borne by the affected leg & both
arms.