Sixty-eight percent of patients complained of axillary/hand pain with the SACs, while 7% complained of proximal leg strap discomfort with the HFSC. Those with a BMI greater than 25 also preferred iWALK over SACs (P <. The SAC group trended toward a higher SSWV (0.8 vs 0.77 m/s P =. 001) were found using the HFSC compared with the SACs. 001), and mean postactivity heart rate (107 vs 122 bpm P <. 001), preactivity and postactivity change in heart rate (28 vs 46 bpm P <. Significantly lower dyspnea scores (2.8 vs 5.3 P <. The HFSC was preferred by 86% of patients. After completing both 6MWTs, patients were asked which assistive device they preferred the most. Immediately following each 6MWT, postactivity heart rate, self-selected walking velocity (SSWV), perceived exertion using the OMNI Rating of Perceived Exertion (OMNI-RPE), and perceived dyspnea using the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale were obtained.
Every subject completed a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) using both assistive devices in a crossover manner. They then crossed over to the other device after vitals returned to within 10% of their baseline heart rate. Each patient was randomly assigned to the device they would utilize first using a random number generator. Patient data and preactivity heart rate were recorded for all patients, who were then randomized to either an HFSC or SACs. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 26 (19-36), the mean height was 1.7 m, and the mean weight was 82 kg. The sample consisted of 35 males and 9 females. Using 44 preoperative orthopedic foot and ankle patients who had a mean age of 32 (19-51) years, a prospective, randomized, crossover study was performed. The purpose of this study was to compare physiologic demand, perceived exertion, and patient preference between a hands-free single crutch (HFSC) and standard axillary crutches (SACs) in foot and ankle patients.
Selecting an appropriate assistive device that safely optimizes mobility and participation in daily activities is important to patient compliance and satisfaction. Weightbearing restrictions following foot and ankle surgery require the use of appropriate assistive devices for nonweightbearing ambulation during the recovery period.