Experimental characterization of the moment-angle curve during level and slope locomotion of transtibial amputee: Which parameters can be extracted to quantify the adaptations of microprocessor prosthetic ankle?

In case of transtibial amputation, the deficit resulting from loss lower limb can be partly compensated with a prosthetic foot and adapted rehabilitation. New feet have been developed for amputees to mimic ankle adaptability varying terrain. Among them, Microprocessor Prosthetic Ankles (MPA) microprocessor control an electric or hydraulic actuator adapt kinematics in stairs slopes. The objective is investigate parameters extracted moment-angle curve (MAC) use them compare 3 MPA during level slope locomotion against energy storing return (ESR) foot. Five persons amputation successively fitted (Propriofoot™, Elan™, Meridium™) compared their ESR participants had 2 weeks adaptation before data acquisition then week wash-out period. Range motion, equilibrium point, hysteresis, late stance released, quasi-stiffness were computed on ground 12% (upward downward) thanks MAC at ankle. study shows relevance evaluate behavior MPA. particular, ESR, all tested present demonstrated better angle between walking conditions but decrease available propulsion. MPA, main results were: (i) Propriofoot™: without modification pattern (ii) Elan™: limited range motion released (iii) Meridium™, highest lowest One findings research show quantify relationship when using different conditions.