Lower limb amputation is an emerging global health concern. Currently, there are over 1.6 million amputees in the U.S. and around 6000 new amputations are recorded per annum in the UK. These numbers are expected to double by 2050 due to the increasing aging population and the adverse health issues such as diabetes, representing a significant, growing problem in western society. A lower limb amputation results in the loss of the biological joint structures such as the ankle and knee, along with the associated musculature. In order to overcome these physical losses, many lower limb amputees are provided with a prosthetic limb that enable them to participate in activities of daily living. The design and function of these prosthetic limbs varies widely, with some being very basic, non-articulating, semi-rigid structures while other more advanced components are computer controlled or incorporate robotic function. Lower limb amputees have been shown to fall more often when compared to age matched individuals without lower limb amputation. This has been reported to be partly a result of a less stable walking pattern. Given that the prosthetic limb provided and it's functional capability is a large component of how well a lower limb amputee is able to walk, it is important to understand what the effects of and potential benefits are from using more advanced prosthetic devices, such as micro-processor controlled knee joints and articulating ankle joints. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to investigate the effects of combining more advanced prosthetic ankle-foot and knee components on the biomechanics of activities of daily living in individuals with above knee amputation.
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Obstacle Course Completion Time (seconds)
Timeframe: All experimental conditions - up to six weeks