Abstract

Energy consumption data were obtained on 8 normal subjects ambulating with underarm crutches, using a 3-point gait at 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 meters per minute (mmin) on level terrain, and 40, 60 mmin on a 5 grade, and climbing 19-cm stairs at 16 and 24 stepsminute. The subjects ambulated without crutches at 30, 50, 70 mmin on the level, 60 mmin on a 5 grade, and stairs at 16 and 24 stepsminute. Oxygen consumption (VO2) and ventilation data were obtained from a portable device. Respiratory quotients were determined from sample of expired gas. Maximal upper extremy (bicycle ergometer) and lower extremity (treadmill) stress tests were determined. The energy cost (oxygen consumption) VO2wt (mlminkg) of ambulating with underarm crutches compared to normal walking was approximately twice as great. The heart rate (HR) and VO2 for any given rate of vertical rise tested was less with crutch stair climbing than with crutchwalking. There was no difference in VO2 or HR when ambulating with underarm compared to forearm (Lofstrand) crutches. Verf.-Referat