Walking on crutches can be a difficult task if you are injured. It requires coordination and balance, as well as muscle strength, primarily on your arms, although your abdominal muscles will also be involved. Although you need to exercise your arms and abdominal muscles and eventually strengthen them, learning how to walk with crutches properly can help you avoid unnecessary fatigue.
proper crutches can prevent injury and muscle strain. (picture: Mike Watson images / moodboard / Getty Images) your abdominal muscles are mainly divided into four groups: transverse abdominal muscle, rectus abdominis muscle, external oblique muscle and internal oblique muscle. Muscles provide stability to the trunk, move the upper body and help the abdominal organs stay in place. All muscles are located in the space between the bottom of the pelvis and the bottom of the ribs. Several types of crutches are available, but the most common one is axillary crutches. The armpit crutch has a padded top, and a hand handle about from the top of the crutch down. You can put the top of the crutch under your armpit and hold the handle to keep it stable. When you use an armpit crutch, most of your weight is supported by your arms and shoulders, but your abdominal muscles are also engaged, mainly to keep your trunk upright and stable. When you take a step forward on crutches, your abdominal muscles contract. Improper crutches can put excessive pressure on your muscles, leading to cramps, fatigue and possible injury. According to the American Academy of orthopedic surgeons, when a proper armpit crutch is standing, there should be a space equal to 1 inch and 1 / 2 of an inch between your crutch and the top of your armpit. The grip should be flush with the hips, and the elbow should be bent when using the grip. Place the crutch close to the torso and avoid pressing the top of the crutch into the armpit.
it is recommended to consult a doctor or physiotherapist to understand the correct movement of crutches. If you plan to use crutches after a planned operation, talk to your doctor about strengthening your abdominal and arm muscles. Using crutches will exercise your abdominal muscles, but being prepared can help prevent or reduce possible muscle fatigue and soreness. If you use a crutch because of an injury, adjust your speed and rest fully while moving to avoid muscle tension.