Improving walking skills for lower limb prosthesis users on uneven terrain
Prosthetic Performance Enhancement Trial
This study tests a walking program for people using lower limb prostheses to see if training on uneven surfaces helps them walk better and feel more confident.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 35 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Nevada, Las Vegas Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Las Vegas, Nevada) |
| Trial ID | NCT06419920 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research aims to assess the feasibility of a walking program designed for lower limb prosthesis users, focusing on uneven terrain to enhance walking skills and confidence. Participants will be randomly assigned to either flat or uneven surface training, with sessions occurring three times a week for four weeks. The study seeks to refine rehabilitation protocols by evaluating adherence and the effectiveness of the training interventions. The ultimate goal is to improve mobility and quality of life for individuals with lower limb amputations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with lower limb amputations at the ankle level or above who regularly use a walking prosthesis.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that cause pain during weight-bearing or those with critical health issues that limit physical activity may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance the mobility and confidence of lower limb prosthesis users, reducing the fear of falling.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific focus on uneven terrain training for prosthesis users is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * lower limb amputation at ankle (Symes) level and above * age 18+ years * fitted with a walking prosthesis and use it regularly for home and/or community ambulation * good socket fit, assessed by a score of 8-10 on the socket fit comfort scale * able to walk for three minutes at a time with or without an assistive device Exclusion Criteria: * leg/foot ulcer or other conditions that cause pain during weight-bearing * poor skin integrity that could cause tissue breakdown by walking * cardiovascular, respiratory or other critical health conditions that preclude moderate physical activity * unilateral or bilateral upper limb absence or loss at the wrist and above that precludes use of handrails bilaterally, or would require asymmetrical adaptation to body posture for use. * pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Las Vegas, Nevada
- University of Nevada Las Vegas — Las Vegas, Nevada, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jenny A Kent, PhD, CSci — University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Jenny A Kent, PhD, CSci
- Email: jenny.kent@unlv.edu
- Phone: 7028955949
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.