Analysis of Method of Axillary Crutch Measurement
Augustine Amaeze Amaeze
Department of Physiotherapy, Evangel University, Akaeze, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Ngozi F. Amaeze
Department of Public Health Education, Faculty of Education, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria.
Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu *
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria and Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Evangel University, Akaeze, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Charles I. Ezema
Department of Medical Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Chukwudi Uchenna Onwudiwe
Physiotherapy, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Clementina N. Eze
School of Basic Midwifery, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Chukwuenyegom Joseph Egbumike
Department of Physiotherapy, Evangel University, Akaeze, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
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.
Keywords: Method, axillary crutch, measurement