Correlation between postural stability and fall risk in trans-femoral amputees due to muscle fatigue

[Purpose] This study aimed to establish a connection between postural stability and falling in individuals with transfemoral amputation (TFA), particularly with muscle fatigue. [Participants and Methods] Fourteen participants were recruited. Muscle fatigue was induced using a sit-to-stand (STS) fatigue protocol. Pre-fatigue and post-fatigue assessments were conducted using the Biodex Balance System (BBS). [Result] The findings of the study revealed significant increases in the postural stability index between the pre-fatigue and post-fatigue conditions for the TFA group, particularly in the overall stability index (OSI) and anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) components. The mean postural stability index scores for the TFA group exhibited a percentage increase of 65.2% for OSI, 52.7% for APSI, and 50% for medial-lateral stability index (MLSI). Furthermore, the TFA fall risk index surged by 61.4%. Regarding the relationships observed, a significant correlation emerged between fall risk and both OSI and APSI. [Conclusion] These findings underscore the impact of muscle fatigue on postural stability and an increase in fall risk among TFA. By mitigating the effects of muscle fatigue, therapists can play an important role in reducing the risk of falls and promoting better postural stability in this population.