Understanding how ankle-foot stiffness affects comfort in prosthetic limbs
Mapping ankle-foot stiffness to socket comfort and pressure using a robotic emulator platform to personalize prosthesis function via human-in-the-loop optimization
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JESSE BROWN VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11261025
This study is looking at how the stiffness of prosthetic ankle-foot devices affects comfort for Veterans who have had a leg amputated below the knee, and it aims to make these devices more comfortable and better suited to each person's needs by gathering their feedback.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JESSE BROWN VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11261025 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the stiffness of prosthetic ankle-foot devices and the comfort experienced by Veterans with transtibial amputation. By using a robotic emulator platform, the study aims to measure how socket pressure impacts user comfort and satisfaction. The goal is to optimize prosthesis function through a human-in-the-loop approach, ensuring that the devices are tailored to individual needs for improved mobility and independence. Participants will provide feedback on their comfort levels, which will be used to refine prosthetic designs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans with transtibial amputation who use or are considering using a prosthetic limb.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a transtibial amputation or those who are not using prosthetic limbs may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more comfortable and effective prosthetic limbs for amputees, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that optimizing prosthetic design based on user feedback can significantly improve comfort and satisfaction, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- JESSE BROWN VA MEDICAL CENTER — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MAJOR, MATTHEW J. — JESSE BROWN VA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: MAJOR, MATTHEW J.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.