How prosthetic foot and ankle stiffness affects walking and standing in amputees

Effect of Prosthetic Foot-Ankle Stiffness on Standing and Walking Performance in Transfemoral Prosthesis Users

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JESSE BROWN VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10910022

This study is looking at how different stiffness levels in prosthetic foot and ankle joints can help people with leg amputations stand and walk better, so we can find the best options for fitting prosthetics to each person's needs and improve their mobility.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJESSE BROWN VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10910022 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different levels of stiffness in prosthetic foot and ankle joints impact the ability of transfemoral prosthesis users to stand and walk effectively. By systematically varying the stiffness of these components, the study aims to identify optimal combinations that enhance performance while maintaining knee stability. The findings will help create guidelines for prosthetists to better fit prosthetic devices to individual needs, ultimately improving mobility for amputees. Participants will engage in assessments that measure their walking and standing capabilities with various prosthetic configurations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone transfemoral amputation and use a prosthetic limb.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone transfemoral amputation or those who do not use a prosthetic limb may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prosthetic designs that enhance mobility and quality of life for amputees.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in optimizing prosthetic designs, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.