Transhumeral prosthesis use affects upper body kinematics and kinetics

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Prosthetics
• Human Movement Analysis

Background:

• Transhumeral (TH) limb loss results in reduced body mass and shoulder mobility.
• Prosthesis abandonment is common despite ownership, leading to potential upper body compensation and pain.
• Understanding gait alterations in TH limb loss is crucial for managing secondary musculoskeletal issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate upper body asymmetries and gait parameters in individuals with TH limb loss.
• To compare gait with and without a prosthesis against able-bodied controls.
• To determine the impact of prosthesis use on compensatory movements.

Main Methods:

• Eight male TH participants and eight male controls underwent gait analysis at self-selected speeds.
• TH participants completed trials with and without their prosthesis.
• Kinematic (arm swing, trunk displacement) and kinetic (trunk-pelvis moment) data were analyzed.

Main Results:

• TH limb loss resulted in greater intact limb arm swing and asymmetry compared to controls.
• Absence of prosthesis led to reduced trunk flexion and lateral flexion.
• Increased trunk-pelvis moments were observed in TH participants.
• Spatial-temporal gait parameters did not significantly differ across groups or conditions.

Conclusions:

• Prosthesis use influences upper body kinematics and kinetics in TH limb loss.
• Wearing a prosthesis promotes more normative upper body movement, potentially mitigating back pain.
• Encouraging prosthesis use, even passively, is important for TH amputees.