Article

Previous literature reports greater metabolic demand of walking following
transtibial amputation. However, most research focuses on relatively older, less
active, and often dysvascular amputees. Servicemembers with traumatic amputation
are typically young, fit, and highly active before and often following surgical
amputation of their lower limb. This study compared the metabolic demand of
walking in young, active individuals with traumatic unilateral transtibial
amputation (TTA) and nondisabled controls. Heart rate (HR), rate of oxygen
consumption, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were calculated as subjects
walked at a self-selected velocity and at five standardized velocities based on
leg length. The TTA group completed a Prosthetics Evaluation Questionnaire.
Oxygen consumption (p = 0.89), net oxygen consumption (p = 0.32), and RPE (p =
0.14) did not differ between groups. Compared with controls, HR was greater in
the TTA group and increased to a greater extent with velocity (p < 0.001).
Overall, the TTA group rated their walking abilities as high (mean: 93% out of
100%). This is the first study to report equivalent metabolic demand between
persons with amputation and controls walking at the same velocity. These results
may reflect the physical fitness of the young servicemembers with traumatic
amputations and may serve to guide outcome expectations in the future.

Langue : ANGLAIS