Trial to Improve Walking Skill and Confidence in Adults With Lower Limb Amputations Using Prosthetic Training on Flat or Uneven Surfaces

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on improving walking skill and confidence in people who use lower limb prostheses by testing a special walking training program. The study compares two types of training walking on a flat surface and walking on uneven terrain. The goal is to see if training with uneven terrain can help users better manage walking challenges and reduce fear of falling. Participants will be randomly assigned to either train on a flat treadmill or mat or on an uneven terrain treadmill or mat. The walking sessions consist of up to 12 sets of 2 minutes continuous walking, with rest breaks, done three times a week for four weeks. The difficulty of the training will increase gradually by reducing handrail support, speeding up walking, and increasing surface unevenness for those on uneven terrain. During the study, participants will be assessed on their adherence to the training over the 4-week period. Various tests and questionnaires will measure walking ability, balance confidence, daily activity levels, and mobility before and shortly after training. Researchers will also evaluate the training programs acceptability and recruitment feasibility to prepare for future trials. The study will continue until July 2027.

Prosthetic Performance Enhancement Trial