Prosthetic model, but not stiffness or height, affects maximum running velocity in athletes with unilateral transtibial amputations
Abstract
The running-specific prosthetic (RSP) configuration used by athletes with transtibial amputations (TTAs) likely affects performance. Athletes with unilateral TTAs are prescribed C- or J-shaped RSPs with a manufacturer-recommended stiffness category based on body mass and activity level, and height based on unaffected leg and residual limb length. We determined how 15 different RSP model, stiffness, and height configurations affect maximum running velocity (vmax) and the underlying biomechanics. Ten athletes with unilateral TTAs ran at 3 m/s to vmax on a force-measuring treadmill. vmax was 3.8–10.7% faster when athletes used J-shaped versus C-shaped RSP models (p max differences were explained by vertical ground reaction forces (vGRFs), stride kinematics, leg stiffness, and symmetry. While controlling for velocity, use of J-shaped versus C-shaped RSPs resulted in greater stance average vGRFs, slower step frequencies, and longer step lengths (p max (p max in athletes with unilateral TTAs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Feb 04, 2020
- Source ID
- 10.1038/s41598-019-56479-8
Entities
People
- Alena M Grabowski
- Emily K Drees
- Owen N Beck
- Paolo Taboga
Organizations
- Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs