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Effect Of Transtibial Prosthesis Mass On Gait Asymmetries
M Seth1, W Hou2, L R Goyarts1
1School of Health Technology and Management, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal
|August 25, 2023
Summary
Adding mass to prosthetic limbs did not significantly alter gait asymmetry in individuals with transtibial amputation (TTA). This suggests prosthesis component selection can be more flexible without compromising walking stability.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Gait Analysis
Background:
- Individuals with transtibial amputation (TTA) often exhibit asymmetrical gait patterns, increasing fall risk and secondary complications.
- Prosthesis mass is a potential factor influencing gait asymmetry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of increased prosthesis mass on temporal and limb loading asymmetry in individuals with TTA.
- To determine if acclimation and community use modify the effects of prosthesis mass on gait.
Main Methods:
- Eight participants with TTA underwent a counterbalanced repeated measures study.
- Three mass conditions (no load, light load, heavy load) were applied proximally to the prosthesis.
- Kinematic and ground reaction force data were collected after one week of acclimation to assess gait symmetry.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in stance time, swing time, vertical ground reaction force peak, or impulse were found across the three mass conditions.
- Gait asymmetry remained consistent regardless of prosthesis mass increase.
Conclusions:
- Increasing prosthesis mass proximally does not appear to exacerbate gait asymmetry in individuals with TTA.
- Clinicians may have greater flexibility in selecting prosthetic components without negatively impacting gait symmetry.
