Question

When crutches are fitted correctly to the patient, which of the following statements is true? a. The axillary supports are 2 to 3 finger widths below the armpit. b. The crutch tips should be worn out to provide more grip. c. The patient should keep their elbows straight when using crutches. d. The crutch handles should be at chest level for added comfort.

Answer 1

Correctly fitted crutches have the axillary supports placed 2 to 3 finger widths below the armpit, and the patient's elbows should be slightly bent, not straight, due to the normal arm's carrying angle.

Step-by-step explanation:

When crutches are fitted correctly to the patient, the statement that is true is that 'the axillary supports are 2 to 3 finger widths below the armpit'.

This is to ensure that the crutches do not put pressure on the armpit, which can cause nerve damage. It is also important to note that when using crutches, the patient's elbows should be slightly bent, not straight.

This is because in the anatomical position, with the elbow fully extended and the palms facing forward, the forearm deviates laterally by 5-15 degrees from the line of the arm, allowing for free swing or to carry an object without hitting the hip. This deviation is called the carrying angle.

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