Fitting for Assistive Devices


It is so important for a client to be properly fitted for assistive devices. First, the correct
fitting can help ensure proper posture and body mechanics while using the assistive device which will help prevent further issues from improper posture or body mechanics. Also, a proper fitting can help prevent a client from falling while using the assistive device.

To fit a client for a cane, when the client is standing, the handle of the cane should reach either the greater trochanter, the ulnar styloid process, or the wrist crease of the patient on the unaffected side. When fitting a client for axillary crutches, the hand grips are at the same point as the handle of the cane—the greater trochanter, the ulnar styloid process, or the wrist crease of the patient while he or she is standing. Additionally, the arm pads should be 5 centimeters below the axilla so the client does not compress essential blood vessels and nerves in the axillary region. Lofstrand crutches have the same requirements for the hand grips as axillary crutches, but it should also be noted that the arm band should be 2/3 of the way up the forearm. A rolling walker has similar requirements. The handgrips should line up with the greater trochanter, ulnar styloid, or wrist crease, and it is important to make sure all legs of the rolling walker are the same height. A platform walker is slightly different—the surface of the platform should be at a height that allows the client to flex his or her elbow to 90 degrees while standing in a relaxed position that still maintains proper posture and body mechanics. The proximal two inches of the ulna should be off the platform so that the nerve is not compressed. The handle of the platform should be angled at a position that is comfortable for the client which is typically angled just slightly medially. The height of all of these devices is adjusted by pressing the buttons on the legs of the device, adjusting the height, and ensuring the device is properly locked after adjustment.

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