Project Details
Description
Individuals with transtibial amputation have a high incidence of falls, with a 43% incidence rate. Prosthesis users traverse many different terrains, such as slopes and stairs, which can increase the risk of falling if insufficient toe clearance is provided. Hydraulic ankle-foot (HAF) prostheses are able to adjust to different terrains and have increased ankle joint range of motion. The purpose of this pilot study is to investigate how hydraulic damping and ankle range of motion affect walking on slopes and stairs, and balancing during standing in K2-level ambulators with unilateral, transtibial amputations. Kinematics and kinetics of transtibial amputees completing different tasks with a HAF prosthesis will be investigated. We hypothesize that toe clearance will be improved for level-ground walking and result in more physiologic kinematics and kinetics in the sound and residual limbs when walking on slopes and stairs. We also hypothesize that trunk posture and weight distribution will be improved during static and dynamic standing balance with the HAF prosthesis. By understanding biomechanics in unilateral, transtibial amputees walking and standing on uneven terrains, we can better inform prosthetic damping level prescriptions in the clinic for K2-level ambulators and better design adaptable hydraulic damping ankle-foot prostheses for improved mobility.
Status | Finished |
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Effective start/end date | 8/1/17 → 12/31/22 |
Funding
- American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (Check 447)
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