Related Experiment Videos
Body sway in below-knee amputees.
Prosthetics and Orthotics International
|December 1, 1986
Summary
Below-knee amputees generally exhibit reduced standing stability compared to able-bodied individuals. However, a well-fitted prosthesis ensures amputees stand as safely as normal persons, particularly younger amputees and older women.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Engineering
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
Background:
- Standing stability is crucial for mobility and independence in individuals with lower-limb loss.
- Previous research on balance in below-knee amputees has yielded varied results, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the standing stability of below-knee amputees with that of non-amputee individuals.
- To test the hypothesis that below-knee amputees possess diminished postural control compared to healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Twenty participants with below-knee amputations were assessed using the quantified Romberg test.
- Participant sway was measured and compared against matched control groups of normal individuals.
- Age and sex were considered as factors in the analysis of standing stability.
Main Results:
- Below-knee amputees under 59 years and women over 59 years demonstrated significantly decreased sway, indicating better stability.
- Amputee men over 59 years showed no significant difference in sway compared to their control group.
- A well-fitted Patellar Tendon Bearing (PTB) prosthesis was associated with standing stability comparable to normal individuals.
Conclusions:
- Below-knee amputees, particularly younger individuals and older women, exhibit enhanced standing stability with appropriate prosthetic use.
- The findings suggest that prosthetic limb technology and proper fitting can effectively restore or even improve postural control.
- Age and sex may influence the relationship between below-knee amputation and standing stability.