| dc.description.abstract | This dissertation explores the impact of prosthetic ankle-foot dynamics on individuals with lower limb loss across several activities of daily living. Most lower limb prosthesis users use a passive device that has a fixed, stiff ankle joint and rigid foot segment. The limited ankle range of motion and lack of foot compliance in these devices may contribute to the mobility challenges and biomechanical compensations of prosthesis users during daily tasks. These difficulties can impact overall quality-of-life and may increase the risk of secondary musculoskeletal conditions, such as joint pain and osteoarthritis. There exist key knowledge gaps in understanding how prosthesis users perform certain activities of daily living and there are opportunities to investigate if prosthetic interventions that alter ankle and foot dynamics can improve task performance.
In this work, I first investigate the impact of incorporating an articulating toe joint into a passive prosthetic foot, focusing specifically on walking on level-ground, inclines, and declines. Second, I characterize the biomechanics of transtibial prosthesis users during other essential daily activities, including sit-to-stand, squatting, lifting, and lunging, while wearing their prescribed prostheses. By characterizing user movement strategies and limb loading patterns, this research identifies limb loading asymmetries and highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve functional ability and reduce the risk of secondary musculoskeletal conditions. Lastly, I evaluate the impact of altering prosthetic ankle stiffness on user preference and biomechanics during sit-to-stand. Insights gained from this body of work provide valuable guidance for improving prosthetic designs to better serve the diverse needs and preferences of lower limb prosthesis users. | |
