Adaptive Mobility Technology: A Comparative Study of C-Leg and Bio Leg
University of Florida
Summary
Following transfemoral amputation, regaining functional mobility, particularly the ability to navigate curbs, ramps, long distances, and the ability to stand is challenging and often unattainable. Use of advanced prosthetic limb technology can dramatically influence mobility outcomes. The purpose of this study is to compare walking function in individuals with transfemoral amputations who are current users of the C-leg (current clinical standard) to function achieved when using the Bio Leg powered micro-processor prosthetic knee.
Description
Although microprocessor-controlled knees (MPKs) such as the C-Leg have demonstrated clear benefits over non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees, it remains unclear whether powered knee assistance provides additional advantages in movement quality, metabolic efficiency, and limb loading during walking adaptability tasks. This study directly addresses this gap by comparing mobility using the Bio Leg to mobility with the C-Leg using outcome measures that reflect real-world mobility challenges. By generating objective evidence on whether powered knee assistance improves biomechanics, effi…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 40–70 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults 40 to 70 years of age * Unilateral transfemoral amputation \> 1 year * K3 or K4 ambulator and able to walk with no greater assistances than a single point cane * Current microprocessor-controlled prosthesis (C-leg) user with \> 6 months experience and able to walk without a device of using a single point cane * Able to give informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cardiovascular condition or other disease limiting study participation * Skin lesions or wounds, acute or unstable fracture, diagnosis of osteoarthritis or bone impairments affecting safe particip…
Interventions
- DeviceBio-Leg
After completing biomechanics and clinical testing at Pre Assessment with their C-Leg, participants will be fitted with a Bio-Leg prosthesis at the prosthetist clinic. The participant will train and use the Bio-Leg prosthesis during a 4-6 week acclimation period. The participant will then complete the same biomechanics and clinical testing at Post Assessment.
Location
- Brooks RehabilitationJacksonville, Florida