The influence of lower-limb prostheses technology on Paracanoeing time-trial performance

Abstract

Within the Paracanoeing discipline, it is important to ensure that appropriate control is achieved by a paddler with a disability. However, this Paralympic Games discipline has seen very little attention to date. The aims of this study were to understand the kinematic impact to a paracanoeist when not utilizing the use of a prosthetic lower-limb. A kayaker with a uni-lateral transfemoral amputation completed several 200 m maximal efforts both with and without their prosthesis. When the prosthetic limb was removed, there were significant differences found in stroke rate, stroke speed, stroke length and overall power output. Sagittal and frontal video analysis demonstrated the residual limb movements when paddling and indicated where support would be required to improve the kayak's control. It is recommended that those with lower-limb absence wishing to paddle a kayak competitively utilize the use of a prostheses designed for the kayaking environment that supports the residual limb at both the upper and inner thigh and the distal end. Implications for rehabilitation This paper is the first study to investigate both biomechanical and assistive technology-related issues in the new Paralympic Games sport of Paracanoeing. For participants possessing lower-limb absence, a prosthetic limb that is designed specifically for the kayaking environment is recommended when Paracanoeing to maximize efficient propulsion. Use of an ergometer and multiple 2D cameras provides practitioners the ability to optimize both the comfort and fit of a prosthetic limb. Use of an ergometer and multiple 2D cameras provides both athletes and practitioners the ability to optimize the points of human contact within a kayak to ensure comfort and control.

Paracanoe: particularities of functional classes in the structuring of the sports’ training

“…Another important aspect is the symmetry of the stroke action between right and left sides, as a symmetrical propulsion force helps maintaining a constant speed ( Bjerkefors et al, 2019;Bjerkefors et al, 2018;Ellis et al, 2017;Michael et al, 2012). The three evaluated athletes presented minimal differences in their stroke length results when comparing the right and left sides.…”

“…The paddling action is a motor action that requires a high level of body control, since it involves complex coordination of upper limbs, trunk, hip and lower limbs under constant interaction, with reaction forces towards different directions, resulting in a forward propulsive force (Bjerkefors et al, 2019;Bjerkefors et al, 2018;Ribeiro et al, 2022;Rosen et al, 2022). However, The variables stroke frequency, speed and stroke index have been pointed out in the literature as significant indicators of efficiency, providing practical information to configure loads and monitor the performance of athletes during water training (Bjerkefors et al, 2015(Bjerkefors et al, , 2018Ellis et al, 2017;Grigorenko et al, 2004;Norrbrink et al, 2012;Rosen et al, 2022).…”

“…Particularly in the paralympic context, there is an interest in studies pertaining the effects of kayak ergometer training in the motor performance of recreational athletes and the influence of prostheses on the performance of athletes belonging to the KL3 (Bjerkefors et al, 2015(Bjerkefors et al, , 2018Ellis et al, 2017;Grigorenko et al, 2004;Norrbrink et al, 2012;Ribeiro et al, 2022;Rosen et al, 2022).Their results demonstrate that there are actual performance differences within sport classes themselves, a conclusion with direct implications over training prescriptions. However, the lack in the literature is perceived in the absence of studies comparing the different sports classes in locu condition or in a kayak ergometer simulation.…”

Core training to reduce the performance gap between abled and disabled athletes in the canoe discipline

“…Core training has proven effective in reducing the performance gap between disabled and non-disabled athletes, so that they can compete together to promote sports inclusion. A further solution could also be given by the use of prosthetic limbs, in the case of amputees, since significant differences were found in the performance, strength and use of the footrest (Ellis et al, 2018).…”

How Can Biomechanics Improve Physical Preparation and Performance in Paralympic Athletes? A Narrative Review

“…For athletes who are lower-limb amputees, changing the seated configuration will change the body centre of mass position, and the use of prostheses may improve the leverage that the limb(s) can provide. For example, in para kayak, Ellis et al [ 43 ] found that when the prosthetic limb was removed, decrements in stroke rate, stroke speed, stroke length, and overall power output were observed. Coaches should ensure the residual limb is well supported in the boat to provide the maximum leverage for optimal propulsive strength.…”