Which device is designed for complete off-loading of one side?

Which device is designed for complete off-loading of one side?

• A. Crutches
• B. Quad Cane
• C. Offset Cane
• D. Hemi-Walker

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how weight is borne when moving with assistive devices. Using crutches allows you to completely unload the injured leg by transferring body weight through your arms during gait, typically with a three-point pattern that keeps the affected limb off the floor. This is essential when a patient is prescribed non–weight bearing on that limb. The other devices provide support and help with balance, but they still require some weight to be placed through the affected leg. A quad cane or offset cane gives a hand-held support on the opposite side and mainly aids stability and partial off-loading rather than fully unloading the limb. A hemi-walker offers stability for unilateral weakness but does not routinely achieve complete off-loading of the involved side. So, for completely unloading one side, crutches are the appropriate choice.

The key idea is how weight is borne when moving with assistive devices. Using crutches allows you to completely unload the injured leg by transferring body weight through your arms during gait, typically with a three-point pattern that keeps the affected limb off the floor. This is essential when a patient is prescribed non–weight bearing on that limb. The other devices provide support and help with balance, but they still require some weight to be placed through the affected leg. A quad cane or offset cane gives a hand-held support on the opposite side and mainly aids stability and partial off-loading rather than fully unloading the limb. A hemi-walker offers stability for unilateral weakness but does not routinely achieve complete off-loading of the involved side. So, for completely unloading one side, crutches are the appropriate choice.