Three-point gait crutch walking: variability in ground reaction force during weight bearing.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate variability in ground reaction force (GRF) and kinematics on both sides during 3-point partial weight-bearing (PWB) crutch walking.

DESIGN

Within-subject comparisons of kinematic and kinetic data collected at different levels of 3-point crutch walking: 10%, 50%, and 90% PWB at comfortable speeds.

SETTING

An applied biomechanics lab in a university setting. An applied biomechanics lab in a university setting.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve healthy college students (9 women, 3 men).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Spatial and temporal variables, major peak kinematic data, and peak GRFs from force platforms during the gait cycle.

RESULTS

Large variations were found in replicating the target levels of PWB, particularly at 10% and 90% PWB. Subjects had a shorter stance phase and longer swing phase during the crutch walking gait cycle. Velocity significantly decreased (p =.006) because of decreased cadence (p =.002). Slightly greater hip abduction and external rotation on the noninvolved side and slightly less hip adduction and internal rotation on the involved side indicated that the center of gravity shifted slightly from the involved side toward the noninvolved side. There was no increase in vertical GRF, and there was a relatively constant loading pattern on the noninvolved side.

CONCLUSIONS

Subjects have difficulty replicating a prescribed weight-bearing restriction. A shift of the center of gravity toward the noninvolved side may reduce the weight distribution on the involved side.