Analysis of crutch position in the horizontal plane to confirm the stability of the axillary pad for safe double-crutch walking

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to analyze the crutch position in the horizontal plane to confirm the stability of the axillary pad during double-crutch walking. [Subjects] Twelve healthy young subjects (6 males and 6 females). [Methods] The subjects were asked to walk in a straight line, using double crutches, for a distance of 5 m, 5 times. Crutch position data were obtained using four infrared reflective markers attached to both crutches (two markers each on both crutches). The crutch angles of each subject were compared across three time points during the crutch stance phase (crutch contact, mid stance, and crutch off). [Results] Crutch angles of each of the two crutches were significantly different across the crutch stance phase of 11 of the 12 subjects. Phasic differences were shown by 4 of the 12 subjects, and a strong correlation was observed between the left and right crutch angles of all subjects. [Conclusion] External rotation of the crutch throughout the stance phase was very important for keeping the axillary pad in the axilla, not only for single-crutch walking, but also for double-crutch walking. In addition, symmetry of the crutch positioning is one of the most important factors for safe double-crutch walking.