7.5 Fitting of cane for ambulation

The ideal cane measurement is obtained by placing the centre of the cane base at 6 inches lateral and anterior to the border of the fifth toe. Then the proximal part

Figure 13. Standing using the cane (full weight bearing).

(hand grip) at the level of the greater trochanter when the user is in an upright position. The user should have about 20–30° flexion of the elbow at this position (Figure 13).

7.9 Rules for safety and comfort when using ambulatory devices

1.Before issuing an ambulatory device the clinician should check that the ferrules (rubber tips) and wheels are not worn to the point where no tread is showing or not align. The ferrules and wheels are to act as friction and if they are worn out there is minimal friction and this is a potential risk factor

2.Ambulatory devices support areas are properly padded. This is important to

4.Ambulatory devices are not cracked, warped or damaged to prevent break of

5.Ambulatory devices nuts and bolts are tight. This is important to avoid fall

1.User should not look down but always look straight ahead. This helps the user

to maintain a good posture and prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

5.User should not put any weight on the affected foot if not advised.

6.User should make sure the ferrules (rubber tips) and wheels are present in

Ambulatory devices are safe and promote users ability to function in activities of daily living when the right ambulatory device is prescribed and accurate measurements of users obtained prior to usage. It also reduces the burden of care and burden on caregivers. Trial and error method of prescribing and assessment should

Safety precautions should be observed by users and clinicians should always educate users on guidelines in ambulating with the devices and care of

3.User should not walk on slippery surfaces to prevent fall.

4.User should avoid snowy, icy, or rainy conditions.

7.User should wear well-fitting, low-heel footwear.

2.User should not use ambulatory devices when feeling dizzy or drowsy to

3.Ambulatory devices pair is a matching pair. Clinician should not issue a mismatched pair. Uneven ambulatory device will lead to poor posture which

avoid damage to soft tissues and provide comfort to the user.

can result into musculoskeletal disorder.

when the device is in use.

prevent fall.

ambulatory devices.

be avoided to prevent injury to the users.

8. Conclusion

the devices.

83

the ambulatory device and also prevent fall.

Users need to take note of the following rules:

The clinician needs to observe and check the followings:

Ambulatory Devices: Assessment and Prescription DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.89886

for fall.
