Analysis of Method of Axillary Crutch Measurement

The purpose of this study was to determine which of the 3 methods axillary measurement best predict ideal crutch length. Ideal crutch length is defined as the length of the crutch, including accessories, obtained during stance when the crutch tip is 15.2cm lateral and 15.2cm anterior to fifth toe and the axillary pad is 6.4cm below the axillary fold. Two hundred and twenty-four (224) volunteers were measured for crutches using each of the following methods: 77% of actual height; actual height minus 40.6cm and anterior axillary fold to heel in supine position with arm adducted. The result of the calculation were statistically significant (p<0.01). However, 77% of actual height and actual height minus 40.6cm had the strongest relationship to the ideal crutch length r (person Product Moment Correlation Coefficient) = 0.941; r2 (linear regression correlation coefficient) = 0.89; p<0.01. Axillary fold heel method had r =0.917: r2= 0.84; P<0.01.