Article

The aim of this study was to compare hip strength in sports-active transtibial
(TT) amputees, sedentary TT amputees and sports-active non-amputees. Three
'active' (exercising recreationally at least three times per week) TT amputees,
four 'inactive' or sedentary TT amputees and nine 'active' able-bodied persons
(AB) underwent concentric and eccentric hip flexion and extension strength
testing on both limbs on an isokinetic dynamometer at 60 and 120 degrees /s.
Little strength asymmetry was noted between the limbs of the active TT amputees
(8% and 14% at 60 and 120 degrees /s, respectively), their residual limb being
slightly stronger. Inactive TT amputees demonstrated up to 49% strength
asymmetry, their intact limb being the stronger. Active TT amputees demonstrated
greater peak hip torques (Nm/kg) for all conditions and speeds compared to
inactive TT amputees. Peak hip torques (Nm/kg), were greater in the active TT
amputees' residual limb compared to AB. While inactive TT amputees and AB had
similar flexion/extension ratios, active TT amputees exhibited a lower ratio
indicating overdeveloped hip extensors with respect to their hip flexors. It is
not known whether this is due to the demands of sport or exercise with a
prosthetic limb, or remaining residual thigh atrophy.

Langue : ANGLAIS