Individuals with transtibial amputations have a compromised capacity to attenuate impact forces experienced during running due to the mechanical limitations of the prosthetic ankle and the altered knee mechanisms. Shock absorbing pylons (SAPs) have been developed to aid in the absorption of impact forces. Researchers from England and South Africa teamed to add to the body of what they say is limited research that examines the efficacy of the SAP during dynamic movements such as running.
The researchers aimed to determine if a SAP influenced the ground reaction force (GRF) characteristics and the shock-absorbing mechanisms compared to a rigid pylon during the loading phase in running. They concluded that 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, and that it is unlikely that the SAP will contribute substantially to reducing the likelihood of amputees experiencing both the shock-related injuries that are common in runners and residual limb discomfort. The study was published in the September issue of Prosthetics and Orthotics International.
However, as just five participants were assessed in this study for a single running gait velocity, the researchers said further research is required which examines the loading mechanisms in response to a wider range of running speeds and over a longer use period.
Editor’s note: This story has been adapted from materials provided by Prosthetics and Orthotics International.
