Understanding Temperature Control in People with Leg Amputations
Thermoregulation in individuals with a leg amputation: mechanics and vascular physiology factors to understand risks for tissue complications
['FUNDING_R01'] · UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-11136337
This project looks at how body temperature is regulated in people with a leg amputation to help prevent skin problems like pressure sores.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11136337 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
For individuals with a leg amputation, keeping the remaining leg and the area where the prosthesis connects healthy is very important. Skin temperature is a key sign of tissue health, as high temperatures can lead to discomfort and increase the risk of pressure sores or ulcers. This is especially true for people with diabetes, who often have trouble with blood flow that helps cool the skin. We want to understand the specific reasons why these areas might get too hot, including how walking mechanics might play a role. This knowledge could lead to better ways to protect vulnerable tissues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this type of research would be adults aged 21 or older who have a unilateral leg amputation, especially those with diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients without a leg amputation or those not experiencing issues with skin temperature regulation related to their prosthesis may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to earlier detection and better ways to prevent painful skin complications like pressure sores for people with leg amputations.
How similar studies have performed: While previous work has linked walking mechanics to foot temperature in healthy individuals and those with diabetes, this specific application to prosthesis users is a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES
- UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH — SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAKAHASHI, KOTA — UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- Study coordinator: TAKAHASHI, KOTA
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.