Article

People with amputations may find cycling advantageous for exercise,
transportation and rehabilitation. The reciprocal nature of stationary cycling
also makes it a viable model for research in motor control because the body is
supported by the saddle allowing the researcher to focus on the cyclic movement
of the legs without the confounding variable of balance. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the cycling task in intact cyclists and
relate this information to understanding the challenges faced by cyclists with
transtibial amputations (CTA). Ongoing research into the biomechanics of CTAs
will be summarized to expose the differences between intact and CTA cycling
mechanics, asymmetries between limbs of CTAs as well as neuromuscular adaptation
following amputation. The article will include recommendations for prosthetic
design and modification of the bicycle to improve cycling performance for CTA at
all experience levels.

Langue : ANGLAIS