A preliminary report on the use of a practical biofeedback device for gait training of above-knee amputees

A new type of biofeedback device for use in gait training of above-knee amputees is described. This device provides immediate and postsession performance feedback to both patient and therapist, based on programmable thresholds of prosthetic weightbearing and hip extension angle. The device is battery powered, lightweight, and completely portable. The design of the microprocessor-based control unit and the weightbearing and hip angle sensors is presented. Initial field trials at Massachusetts General Hospital show that this device meets the clinical requirements of simplicity and good human interface. Based on this experience, design recommendations are made for a general purpose physical therapy biofeedback and data acquisition system.