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Transitioning to a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee: Executive functioning during single and dual-task gait.
Nerrolyn Ramstrand1, David F Rusaw1, Saffran Filippa Möller1
1Department of Rehabilitation, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden.
Prosthetics and Orthotics International
|December 13, 2019
Summary
Transitioning to a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee may reduce cognitive load during walking for some lower-limb amputees. This study observed reduced executive function demands after users adopted the advanced prosthetic knee technology.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Walking with lower-limb prosthetics significantly increases cognitive demand, particularly on executive functions.
- The impact of prosthetic knee prescription on executive functioning remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess executive functioning in transfemoral prosthesis users during single and dual-task walking.
- To evaluate changes in executive functioning before and after transitioning to a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee (MPK).
Main Methods:
- A multiple case-study design was employed.
- Cortical brain activity was recorded during single and dual-task walking.
- Assessments were conducted before and at least 8 months after MPK fitting.
Main Results:
- Most participants showed reduced executive function demands (indicated by frontal cortex hemodynamic response) during single-task and dual-task walking after receiving an MPK.
- No significant changes in executive function demands were observed during a trail walk test.
Conclusions:
- MPKs may positively influence executive functioning in some individuals with lower-limb amputations.
- Further research with larger sample sizes and controlled variables is necessary to confirm causality.
