A study published February 25 in the journal Prosthetics and Orthotics International found that a specialized terminal device (TD) allowed users the ability to swing a golf club with sufficient repetition, form, and velocity to play golf recreationally. Increased elbow flexion on the prosthetic side after training suggests a potential kinematic benefit from using the TD, the researchers said.
The purpose of the study, conducted by researchers at the University of South Florida, Tampa, was to evaluate the ability of two people with transradial amputations to play golf using the TRS Eagle Golf TD. Club head speed, X-factor (hip rotation), and elbow motion of the participants using the TD were compared to those of an able-bodied person during a golf swing. Measurements were collected pre- and post-training with various stances and grips. The individuals with amputations had slower club head speeds and a lower X-factor compared to the able-bodied golfer, but increased their individual elbow motion on the prosthetic side after training.
