Rising from the floor in persons with a transtibial amputation: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Rehabilitation Science
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Falls pose a significant risk for individuals using prostheses.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the ability to rise from the floor for those with transtibial amputation (TTA).

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify movement strategies and assess performance time when rising from the floor in individuals with a TTA.
• To examine the concurrent validity of the timed supine to stand test (TSST) in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional pilot study design was employed.
• Eleven participants with unilateral TTA completed the TSST and were observed for movement strategies.
• Additional measures included the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) and Timed Up and Go Test.

Main Results:

• The average time to rise from the floor was 10.6 seconds.
• A significant association was found between TSST performance and age, ABC, Timed Up and Go, and Short Physical Performance Battery.
• Over half of participants used external support (e.g., a chair) to stand, with many leading with their prosthetic limb.

Conclusions:

• The TSST demonstrates concurrent validity and is associated with physical performance, age, and balance confidence in individuals with TTA.
• The half-kneel position, often initiated with the prosthetic limb, is a common strategy for rising.
• Findings provide practical insights for clinicians to assist clients in rising from the floor.