Article

We aimed to determine if a shock absorbing pylon (SAP) influenced the
ground reaction force characteristics and the shock absorbing mechanisms compared
to a rigid pylon (Rigid) during the loading phase in running. Objectives: To
determine if the SAP influences the mechanisms of loading compared to the Rigid
condition. Study Design: A convenience sample of transtibial amputees
participated in a laboratory-based study. The prosthetic set-up was randomly
altered fd\sdsd. Methods: Five recreationally active male transtibial amputees
age: 18-50 years; mean mass: 86.7 +/- 17.5 kg; height: 1.77 +/- 0.07 m)
volunteered from a population-based sample. They completed a
within-participant-designed study assessing a SAP and a Rigid condition during
running. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected during two sessions following
a one-week customization period. Results: Loading rate, peak vertical and
horizontal ground reaction forces and the time to each measure along with knee
and hip angular displacement, absorbing powers and work done between the SAP and
Rigid conditions were not systematically affected by the prosthetic condition.
Conclusions: The effect of the SAP was minimal and inconsistent in the loading
phase, with only some amputees presenting higher and others with lower values for
the tested variables. Clinical relevance The inclusion of a prosthetic shock
absorber in the form of a SAP did not systematically alter the kinetic
characteristics or shock absorbing mechanisms of the residual joints. It appears
that the prescription of a SAP is not justified for these recreationally active
amputees.

Langue : ANGLAIS