Lower extremity leg amputation: an advantage in running?

Abstract

The goal in the rehabilitation of amputees is full reintegration into society. The ability to engage in sports activities is part of the rehabilitation. The prosthetic leg is individually fitted and specialized for one specific type of competition. The discussions regarding bilateral trans-tibial amputee, Oscar Pistorius, focus on the advantages of wearing prosthetic feet. With a holistic view on prosthetic applications, such as the challenges of selection, fitting, alignment, the adaptation of the socket, and the compensatory strategies of the amputee, it is hard to imagine that a bilateral amputee has advantages compared to an able-bodied athlete. This article describes the clinical view of fitting an amputee athlete and describes the disadvantages of amputees compared to able-bodied sprinters with a focus on the prosthetic fitting and the interface.

Performance enhancement of bi-lateral lower-limb amputees in the latter phases of running events: an initial investigation

“…Lechler and Lilja state that the most important factor in improved running is probably the suspension of the prosthesis; inferior suspension causes problems during gait, and the amputee experiences insecurity and pistoning of the prosthesis. 17…”

Spatiotemporal Variables of Able-bodied and Amputee Sprinters in Men’s 100-m Sprint

“…The use of materials such as carbon fiber, titanium and graphite has provided added strength and energy storage capabilities to prostheses while decreasing the weight of prosthetic components [14]. Today, carbon fiber running-specific prostheses (RSPs) are the most popular choice for elite running and jumping events [7,9]. RSPs with energy-storing capabilities have attracted individuals with lower extremity amputation (ILEAs) to running as a form of exercise and athletic competition, and allowed ILEAs to compete at higher levels than previously [11].…”

Closing the gap through technology

“…Flex-Foot prosthesis [3] was considered to 'incorporate' springs, that is, the running blades (carbon fiber blades; Figure 1), and was meant to extend the following and already existing rule:…”

“…The forerunner in these developments is definitely these companies that produce prostheses dedicated for track-and-field competitions [3].…”