Balance Adaptation in Unilateral Amputees
Author Information
Author(s): Mayer Ágnes, Tihanyi József, Bretz Károly, Csende Zsolt, Bretz Éva, Horváth Mónika
Primary Institution: Semmelweis University
Hypothesis
We hypothesized that vascular insufficiency in the affected leg had induced some degree of weight-bearing asymmetry long before amputation, organizing postural control around the non-affected side.
Conclusion
Unilateral amputees due to vascular insufficiency show significant adaptations in balance control, with early adaptations occurring before amputation and further adaptations during rehabilitation.
Supporting Evidence
- FFA showed 27.8% greater postural sway in bilateral stance compared to SPU (p = 0.0004).
- Postural sway area was smaller in FFA standing on the non-affected leg compared with SPU (p = 0.028).
- The radius of the circle containing 95% of COP trajectory was significantly reduced for FFA compared with SPU.
Takeaway
When someone loses a leg because of blood flow problems, they learn to balance differently, first by favoring their good leg before and then adjusting again after they get a prosthetic leg.
Methodology
The study measured postural sway in unilateral amputees using a stabilometry system during quiet standing on both legs and the non-affected leg.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-selection of participants who were comfortable with standing tests.
Limitations
The study did not include patients prior to amputation or trauma amputees, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
18 patients (11 males, 7 females) with unilateral below-knee amputation due to vascular disease, aged 61.1 (SPU) and 64.8 (FFA) years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0004
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website