Mount Sterling

Researchers are studying people with lower limb amputations who continue to face problems with balance, falls, limb pain, mobility, and daily activities despite using prostheses. This randomized clinical trial focuses on how a new prosthetic foot design with adaptable side-to-side motion may improve these challenges. People with above-knee, bilateral, or below-knee amputations who have lower mobility levels are included to evaluate the impact of this novel foot design compared to locked and usual prosthetic feet. The study uses a randomized crossover design with four phases: A1, B1, B2, and A2. Participants first use their usual prosthetic foot (A1), then try the novel foot with either a locked or unlocked side-to-side linkage for about two weeks each (B1 and B2), followed by a return to their usual foot (A2). The adaptable foot is provided by a licensed prosthetist, and bilateral amputees receive symmetrical prostheses. If needed, foot stiffness adjustments may extend use periods by 2 to 4 weeks. Participants will complete questionnaires, daily online or paper logbooks about prosthetic use, pain, falls, and activities, as well as interviews after the B2 and A2 phases. Physical tests include walking speed, turning, and stepping challenges measured with an instrumented walkway. Researchers will assess performance, comfort, daily activity participation, and mobility using these tests and the Prosthetic Limb Users Survey of Mobility over the roughly 10-week study.