Equip

Sizing Ambulation Devices

Walker

• In standing, adjust the height of the walker so that the top of the walker reaches the level of the greater trochanter or the ulnar styloid process of the wrist

• If the athlete is unable to stand, this measurement can be taken in supine

Crutches

• In standing, place the tip of the crutch 4–6" to the front & outside of each foot

• Adjust the length so that the axillary pad of the crutch is 2–3 finger widths below the axilla

• If the athlete is unable to stand, this measurement can be taken in supine

• Adjust the hand grip so that the elbow is flexed 25° to 30°

Canes

• In standing, place the cane along side of the leg

• The top of the cane should reach the level of the greater trochanter or the ulnar styloid process of the wrist

• If the athlete is unable to stand, this measurement can be taken in supine

Gait Patterns

4-Points: 2 Canes or Crutches

Sequence: cane/crutch, Ⓛ LE, Ⓛ cane/crutch, LE

3-Points: Walker or 1 Cane/Crutch

Sequence: Device, involved LE, uninvolved LE

2-Points: 1 Cane or Crutch

Sequence: Device with involved LE, uninvolved LE

2-Points: 2 Canes or Crutches

Sequence: cane/crutch with Ⓛ LE, Ⓛ cane/crutch with LE

Ambulatory Strategies

Ascending Stairs or Curbs

• If a handrail is present; place assistive device(s) on opposite side of handrail

• Step up with uninvolved LE

• Step up with involved LE

• Follow with assistive device

Descending Stairs or Curbs

• If a handrail is present; place assistive device(s) on opposite side of handrail

• Place assistive device(s) down on next step

• Step down with involved LE

• Step down with uninvolved LE

Mouthguard

Standard Fitting

• Begin with appropriate size mouthguard, i.e. youth, adult

• Hold mouthguard by loop & submerge in boiling water for 20–30 seconds

• Allow excess water to drain off & place mouthguard into the mouth over the upper teeth

• Do NOT bite down or allow lower teeth to touch mouthguard

• Place tongue in roof of mouth & suck as hard as possible for 15–20 seconds

• Rinse mouthguard in cold water

• Inspect for imperfections; trim as needed but do NOT reheat

Source: Anderson MK (2002).

Braces

• Athletes with braces should be fitted with a mouthguard that covers both the upper & lower teeth

Helmets