Article

Individuals with unilateral lower-limb amputation (LLA) have altered
structure and physiology of their lower limbs which impairs their balance,
mobility, physical function and participation in physical activities. As part of
(re)habilitation, focus is given to improving gait and balance in order to
enhance overall mobility, function, self-efficacy, and independence. However, the
relationships amongst body impairments and physical activity limitations remain
unclear, particularly in the pediatric population.
OBJECTIVE: To provide an
examination of the relationships among balance and mobility measures in children
with unilateral lower-limb amputation and able-bodied children. STUDY DESIGN:
Cross-sectional prospective comparative pilot study. METHODS: Spatiotemporal gait
parameters and standing postural control were evaluated in children with
lower-limb amputation (n = 10) and age-matched able-bodied children (n = 10) in a
laboratory-based setting. Clinical tests for mobility and balance consisted of
the 10-m walk test, the 6-min walk test, and the Community Balance and Mobility
scale. Energy expenditure was estimated during the 6-min walk test using the
Physiological Cost Index. Analysis included comparing variables between
able-bodied and lower-limb amputation groups, as well as examining the
correlations among them. RESULTS: Walking speed, distance, and functional balance
(p < 0.05) were significantly diminished in children with lower-limb amputation
compared to able-bodied children. For children with lower-limb amputation,
reduced energy expenditure was associated with narrower step width and more
symmetrical gait; better postural control and balance were associated with faster
walking speeds (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: A greater clinical understanding of gait
and balance deficits in this population may help to improve rehabilitation
outcomes and overall functional mobility. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Improved
understanding of deficits in children with lower-limb amputation (LLA) may lead
to more targeted interventions and facilitate clinical decision-making in
rehabilitation settings for this population. The findings contribute to the
limited literature and provide a basis to further examine suitable clinical
outcome measures to be used in children with LLA.
CI - (c) The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics 2014.

Langue : ANGLAIS