Which assistive device is associated with a risk of axillary nerve compression?

Which assistive device is associated with a risk of axillary nerve compression?

• A. Axillary crutches
• B. Parallel Bars
• C. Single point cane
• D. Hemi-walker

Answer: (A)

Pressure in the armpit from underarm crutches can compress the axillary nerve as it courses near the shoulder. When weight is borne through the axilla for extended periods or the crutch fit is poor, the nerve (and surrounding vessels) can become irritated, leading to numbness over the lateral shoulder and weakness of shoulder abduction due to deltoid involvement. Other devices—parallel bars, a single point cane, and a hemi-walker—place weight through the hands or forearm rather than the axilla, so they don’t carry this specific risk.

Pressure in the armpit from underarm crutches can compress the axillary nerve as it courses near the shoulder. When weight is borne through the axilla for extended periods or the crutch fit is poor, the nerve (and surrounding vessels) can become irritated, leading to numbness over the lateral shoulder and weakness of shoulder abduction due to deltoid involvement. Other devices—parallel bars, a single point cane, and a hemi-walker—place weight through the hands or forearm rather than the axilla, so they don’t carry this specific risk.