Article

Increasing numbers of long jumpers with lower limb amputations choose
to take off from their prosthetic limb. It is not yet known what difference in
technique, if any, this requires, or which is more advantageous. Objectives: To
investigate kinematic differences in long jump technique in athletes with a
unilateral transtibial ampution (TT) who take off from their prosthetic limb
versus those who take off from their intact limb. Study Design: Naturalistic,
field-based, observational; independent group, nonparametric comparison. Methods:
Two-dimensional sagittal plane kinematic analysis was performed on all athletes
competing in the men's Paralympic TT long jump finals. Five athletes took off
from their prosthetic limb (TO(prosth)) and five from their intact limb
(TO(intact)). Results: No differences were seen between the two groups in terms
of jump distance, approach speed or vertical velocity at touch down. While in
contact with the take-off board, the two groups gained a similar amount of
vertical velocity. However, the TO(prosth) group appeared to conserve horizontal
velocity by using the prosthesis as a 'springboard', minimizing the large hip and
knee range of motion displayed by the TO(intact) group and athletes in previous
studies. Conclusions: While differences in technique were observed, no difference
was found for jump distance. Clinical relevance Athletes choosing to take-off
from their prosthetic limb in long jump require a different technique to those
who choose to take-off from their intact limb. Knowledge of the correct technique
can help reduce excessive training which can lead to injury, particularly in the
residual limb.

Langue : ANGLAIS