Abstract

Recent developments in carbon fiber running-specific prostheses (RSPs) have allowed individuals with lower limb amputation to regain the functional capability of running and sport activities. Development of improved rehabilitation techniques and prosthesis designs to promote running within this population requires a detailed understanding of running biomechanics and the biomechanical function of prostheses during this activity. However, due to the lack of running studies in individuals with lower limb amputation and the dearth of information on RSPs, quantification of biomechanical parameters during running using the RSPs is scarce.

Therefore, this symposium will review and report cutting-edge researches on prosthetic leg and active rehabilitation including sports from viewpoints of biomechanics, engineering and rehabilitation medicine. Firstly, the history of RSP development and neuromechanical principle of running gait in individuals with lower limb amputation will be presented. Secondly, development of prosthetic knee joints for RSP and the following consequences for transfemoral amputee’s running and sprinting in para- and leisure sports will be introduced. Thirdly, assessment of athletic performance in individuals with lower limb amputation using RSP, especially, biomechanical differences of elite long jumpers with and without lower limb amputation will be discussed. Finally, clinical problems and challenges for social implementations on running rehabilitations and para-sports team building for individuals with lower limb amputation will be discussed. We believe that this symposium will be of interest to prosthetists, physiotherapists, biomechanists, engineers, and coaches.

Statement of the objective / learning objectives

Attendees will gain a detailed understanding of running biomechanics in individuals with lower limb amputation to improve training/rehabilitation regimes and prosthetic designs for promoting running activities within this population.