Technical Notes and Tips: The Use of an Axillary Crutch as a Knee Flexion Contracture Correction Device

Abstract

We describe a simple, patient-controlled technique for the treatment of early flexion contracture following total knee replacement. An axillary crutch may be used to aid passive extension in the postoperative period. The leg is placed through the inverted crutch and a foam pad is positioned between the patient's heel and the axillary pad (Fig. 1). The hand grip is then adjusted to the level of the knee joint and is wrapped with a wool dressing. The patient exerts a downward pressure on the foot of the crutch to gain knee extension. Figure 1 The axillary crutch.