Patient Preferences and Functional Outcomes of Forearm Crutches vs Hands-Free Single Crutches After Foot and Ankle Surgery: A Randomized Crossover Trial.

Background: Assistive devices facilitate daily activities and recovery, and are essential for nonweightbearing ambulation after orthopaedic foot or ankle surgery.This study aimed to compare the usability of forearm crutches (FCs) and hands-free single crutches (HFSCs) during the early postoperative recovery phase in terms of their effects on mobility, speed, safety, range, endurance, personal preference, and quality of life.

Methods: This prospective randomized crossover study included 35 participants. Assessments included the 36-Item Short-Form Survey, Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment Questionnaire, and European Foot and Ankle Society Score administered preoperatively and at 2 follow-up examinations. Patients were assigned to either device (FC or HFSC) for the first 3 weeks after surgery. The primary outcome was number of stumble events (SEs) during standardized mobility tests. For secondary outcomes (including mobility, speed, and range), patients completed clinical tests such as the 6-minute walk test, stair-climbing test, 10-m walk test, and indoor and outdoor parkour activities. Following the clinical tests, the patients provided qualitative feedback, including personal preference and overall device usage. After switching the devices, the tests were repeated at 6 weeks postoperatively.

Results: Although FCs performed better in most mobility tests, patients favored HFSCs because of enhanced comfort and lower perceived exertion. Despite the physical advantages of FCs, patients tended to prefer HFSCs owing to their ergonomic benefits. The quality of life and physical function scores for both devices declined after surgery, reflecting a typical postoperative recovery phase. Younger and male patients generally performed better with HFSCs, whereas female, older, and overweight patients faced more challenges.

Conclusion: FCs outperform HFSCs with respect to mobility, but patients prefer HFSCs due to comfort and reduced exertion although the clinical significance of these perceived differences remains uncertain. This underscores the need for personalized device recommendations to improve postoperative outcomes. This study highlights the complexity of device selection based on individual patient needs and preferences.

Level of evidence: Level II, prospective, randomized comparative study.