Energy cost of ambulation with crutches

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 (m.min^-1) on level terrain, and 40, 60m.min^-1 on a 5% grade, and climbing 19-cm stairs at 16 and 24 steps/minute. The subjects ambulated without crutches at 30, 50, 70m.min^-1 on the level, 60m.min:-¹ on a 5% grade, and stairs at 16 and 24 steps/minute. Oxygen consumption (V̇(O)₂)) and ventilation data were obtained from a porable device. Respiratory quotients were determined from samples of expired gas. Maximal upper extremity (bicycle ergometer) and lower extremity (treadmill) stress tests were determined. The energy cost (oxygen consumption) V̇(O)₂.wt^-1 (ml.min^-1.kg^-1) of ambulating with underarm crutches compared to normal walking was approximately twice as great. The heart rate (HR) and V̇(O)₂ for any given rate of vertical rise tested was less with crutch stair climbing than with crutch walking. There was no difference in V̇(O)₂ or HR when ambulating with underarm to forearm (Lofstrand) crutches.