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Abstract
This study compares different measures of performance and participant preferences using two different crutch designs with elite footballers with amputation; a traditional elbow crutch and spring-assisted crutch. Seven male international athletes were randomly assigned to one of the crutch designs. Tests of speed and agility were performed one week apart. Participants completed a questionnaire regarding perceived pain, stability, fatigue, ease of use and crutch design preferences. Participants using the traditional elbow crutch were significantly (p < 0.05) faster in all tests (Illinois agility test, 3 cone agility test and 10, 20, 40 m sprints). A significant increase in perceived exertion was detected when using spring-assisted crutches (p = 0.03). Preferences were favoured to traditional crutch design for stability, ease of use, pain, preference using for soccer and on a daily basis. The findings of this study suggest significant differences in performance and user preference between traditional crutches and spring-assisted crutches. Participants using traditional crutches were significantly faster for all measures of speed and agility. Further research is needed to understand the reasons for these findings.
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Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Millenial Medical ® for their assistance with purchase of the crutches and the GB Amputee Football Team for their support with arranging the study. The purchase of the crutches was enabled through a charitable donation from a corporate sponsor that wishes to remain anonymous. Thank you also to Matt Seeley and Eleanor Tillett for their advice with the early draft of the paper.