A client with a fractured left femur has been using crutches for the p

A client with a fractured left femur has been using crutches for the past 4 weeks. The physician tells the client to begin putting a little weight on the left foot when walking. Which of the fol-lowing gaits should the client be taught to use?

1. Two-point
2. Three-point
3. Four-point
4. Swing-through

ANSWER

ANS: 1
The two-point gait requires at least partial weight bearing on each foot. The client moves a crutch at the same time as the opposing leg, so that the crutch movements are similar to arm motion during normal walking. In a three-point gait, weight is borne on both crutches and then on the uninvolved leg. The four-point gait gives stability to the client but requires weight bearing on both legs. Each leg is moved alternately with each opposing crutch so that three points of support are on the floor at all times. This client is only supposed to use partial weight bearing, so this gait would not be appropriate. Paraplegics who wear weight-supporting braces on their legs use the swing-through gait. It would not be appropriate for this client.