Determining the Potential Benefit of Powered Prostheses

Determining the Potential Benefit of Powered Prostheses

The goal of this research is to determine the effectiveness of a powered prosthesis compared to an unpowered prosthesis during short bouts of walking, extended periods of walking (to fatigue), and performance in the community.

Many individuals are living in the United States with limb loss. With the use of a prosthetic device many individuals can stay active, but most do not achieve a medically desired physical activity level. This creates a risk for cardiovascular disease. It is thought that individuals with amputation walk less because it is more difficult to get around, and recent advances in robotic prosthetic technology may make such activities easier. However, these prostheses have not yet been evaluated to determine their effectiveness during extended periods of walking. Despite the goals in design of new devices it is unclear whether individuals using them are able to incorporate them into making daily activities easier. Therefore, the goal of this research is to determine the effectiveness of a powered prosthesis compared to an unpowered prosthesis during long periods of walking.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult (over 21 years old), Has unilateral transtibial amputation, has used prosthesis for at least 6 months, is currently using an unpowered prosthesis, can walk unassisted for at least 10 minutes

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of orthopedic or neurologic disorders to their intact limb, history of cardiovascular disease that prevents them from safely completing requested activities, unable to walk for 30 minutes at a time