Article

The aim of the study was to investigate how kinematic and kinetic adjustments
between level and slope locomotion of persons with transtibial amputation are
related to their individual muscular and functional capacities. A quantified gait
analysis was conducted on flat and slope surfaces for seven patients with
transtibial amputation and a control group of eight subjects to obtain
biomechanical parameters. In addition, maximal isometric muscular strength (knee
and hip extensors) and functional scores were measured. The results of this study
showed that most of the persons with transtibial amputation could adapt to ramp
ascent either by increasing ankle, knee, and hip flexion angles of the residual
limb and/or by recruiting their hip extensors to guarantee enough hip extension
power during early stance. Besides, 6-minute walk test score was shown to be a
good predictor of adaptation capacities to slope ascent. In ramp descent, the
increase of knee flexion moment was correlated with knee extensor strength and
residual-limb length. However, no correlation was observed with functional
parameters. Results show that the walking strategy adopted by persons with
transtibial amputation to negotiate ramp locomotion mainly depends on their
muscular capacities. Therefore, muscular strengthening should be a priority
during rehabilitation.

Langue : ANGLAIS