Prosthetic Performance Enhancement Trial
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Summary
The purpose of this research is to determine the feasibility of an uneven terrain walking program for lower limb prosthesis users. The training is designed to induce step-to-step variability during walking within a safe environment, with the aim of improving walking skill and confidence.
Description
Despite advances in the technology for artificial limbs (prostheses), falling and the fear of falling continue to be barriers to mobility for many lower limb prosthesis users after their initial rehabilitation. The loss of ability and confidence in pursuing everyday tasks negatively impacts quality of life, and ongoing physical and mental health. This study will test and improve a rehabilitation training intervention involving walking on uneven ground to improve walking skill and confidence in lower limb prosthesis users. Lower limb prosthesis users will be recruited. Participants will be all…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * lower limb amputation at ankle (Symes) level and above * age 18+ years * fitted with a walking prosthesis and use it regularly for home and/or community ambulation * good socket fit, assessed by a score of 8-10 on the socket fit comfort scale * able to walk for three minutes at a time with or without an assistive device Exclusion Criteria: * leg/foot ulcer or other conditions that cause pain during weight-bearing * poor skin integrity that could cause tissue breakdown by walking * cardiovascular, respiratory or other critical health conditions that preclude moderate ph…
Interventions
- OtherFlat terrain locomotor training
The training will be comprised of up to 12 sets of 2-min continuous walking on a level treadmill or mat, interspersed with rest breaks of at least one minute. Training will be completed three times per week for four weeks.
- OtherUneven terrain locomotor training
The training will be comprised of up to 12 sets of 2-min continuous walking on an uneven terrain treadmill or mat, interspersed with rest breaks of at least one minute. Training will be completed three times per week for four weeks.
Location
- University of Nevada Las VegasLas Vegas, Nevada