Amputee walking training: a preliminary study of biomechanical measurements of stance and balance

Biomechanical parameters of stance and balance were recorded in ten unilateral lower limb amputees at the beginning and end of walking training. Measurements were carried out using a Double Video Forceplate (DVF), a machine developed at University College, London, Bioengineering Centre, Roehampton. During free standing on the DVF there was a mean increase in weight-bearing under the prosthetic foot from 32% body weight (1st session) to 41% body weight (final session), p less than 0.01. Maximum weight-bearing during leaning as far as possible onto the prosthesis increased from a mean of 54% body weight to 63% body weight, p less than 0.01. These simple measurements of weight distribution between the feet can be of value during walking training to monitor progress and can accurately record improvement for research purposes.