J Korean Acad Rehabil Med.  2010 Apr;34(2):189-196.

Gait Characteristics of Transfemoral Amputees in Long Term Users of Poly Centric Knee

• Kim WS
• Choi JY
• Lee SH
• Kim SD
• Jeong HW
• Jang CH
• Cha DY
• Kim SN

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate characteristic gait patterns of transfemoral amputees who have been using polycentric knee for a long time. METHOD: Subjects were 22 transfemoral amputees using prosthesis for 29.0 years and 23 age-matched healthy adults. The three-dimensional gait analysis was performed. Temporospatial, kinematic and kinetic parameters were measured.
RESULTS
Cadence and walking velocity of amputees decreased (p<0.05). Single support period decreased in amputee limb. There were no significant differences in hip flexion moment and power. In amputated limb, knee flexion in loading response was not observed and ankle plantar flexion was less than sound limb and control group. Excessive compensations of amputee side hip joint were not significant.
CONCLUSION
Long term polycentric knee unit transfemoral prosthesis users show asymmetry of gait pattern which can increase the risk of musculoskeletal problems. Epidemiologic investigation would be necessary for prevention and proper management.

Keyword

Transfemoral amputation; Gait analysis; Polycentric knee

MeSH Terms

Adult
Amputees
Animals
Ankle
Extremities
Gait
Hip
Hip Joint
Humans
Knee
Prostheses and Implants
Walking