Motorized Prosthesis for Walking with a Prosthetic Leg
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a motorized prosthesis (a powered device for assisting movement) can help people with lower-limb amputations improve their daily mobility. Researchers aim to determine if it enhances walking speed, balance, and overall control by comparing mobility with and without the device. Participants will engage in activities like walking on various terrains and climbing stairs to assess the prosthesis's performance. This trial may suit individuals who have had an amputation, can walk at least 30 feet with or without support, and have received physician approval. As an unphased trial, it offers the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance mobility solutions for amputees.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this motorized prosthesis is safe for improving mobility?
Research has shown that motorized prostheses, which use advanced technology to assist people with amputations in moving more easily, are generally safe. Current studies on these prosthetics, including those with microprocessor control, demonstrate their ability to adjust to the user's movements in real-time. This adjustment helps improve balance and reduces the risk of falling.
However, like any new technology, some challenges may arise. Users might experience temporary discomfort or need time to adapt to the device. Reports of side effects are usually mild and short-lived, such as minor skin irritation or discomfort similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes.
Overall, motorized prostheses are considered well-tolerated. They offer promising benefits for mobility without significant safety concerns based on existing evidence.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the motorized prosthesis because it offers a dynamic approach to improving mobility for people using prosthetic legs. Unlike traditional passive prostheses that rely solely on the user's energy, this motorized option can actively assist with movements like walking on inclines, navigating stairs, and transitioning between sitting and standing. The prosthesis can function in different modes—off, transparent, and powered—allowing for customizable support levels. This adaptability could significantly enhance the ease and safety of walking, potentially reducing fatigue and the risk of falls compared to standard prosthetic options.
What evidence suggests that this motorized prosthesis is effective for improving mobility in individuals with amputation?
Research has shown that motorized prosthetic legs can significantly enhance walking for individuals with amputations. In this trial, participants will test the motorized prosthesis in various configurations: "off," "transparent," and "powered." Studies have found that these devices often outperform non-motorized prostheses in mobility and user satisfaction. Users of powered prostheses experience improved balance and control, particularly on uneven surfaces like hills or stairs. Some research even suggests that powered prostheses can reduce fatigue, making walking feel more natural. Overall, early results indicate promising improvements in walking with motorized prostheses.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18 to 85, with or without a lower-limb amputation, who can walk at least 30 feet (with or without an aid), understand simple English instructions, and are able to safely use the prosthesis. Those with amputations need their doctor's approval.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants perform ambulation activities with their personal prosthesis to establish a baseline for comparison
Intervention
Participants perform ambulation activities with the motorized prosthesis in various configurations ('off', 'transparent', 'powered')
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Motorized Prosthesis
Trial Overview
The study compares walking ability using a motorized prosthetic leg versus a regular passive prosthesis. Participants will try both types while doing everyday activities like walking on different surfaces and stairs. Researchers want to see if the motorized version improves movement.
How Is the Trial Designed?
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Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Trials will take place over-ground and/or on a treadmill. Participants will ambulate for up to 40 minutes. Frequent breaks will be provided between trials and conditions to avoid fatigue and a maximum of 15 minutes of continuous ambulation will take place between breaks. When deemed necessary by the research staff or participant, crutches, canes, walkers, an overhead support system, or other ambulation or safety aid will be used to minimize the risk of a severe fall. List of ambulation activities will include no more than 1. Walking at a mild incline/decline (0°-15°) on treadmill or over-ground 2. Ascending or descending stairs 3. Stand to sit and sit to stand transitions 4. All terrain walking over ground 5. Turning 6. Any combination of the above-mentioned activities The above activities will be performed with the passive prosthesis and the motorized prosthesis in the "off", "transparent", and "powered" configurations.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northern Arizona University
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Therapeutic benefits of lower limb prostheses: a systematic ...
We identified 4281 records and included 34 studies in total. Results indicate that quasi-passive and active prostheses are favoured over passive prostheses ...
Case Study on Human Walking during Wearing a Powered ...
It was expected to have some differences in the ankle angle data, but the main conclusion is that the human walking is not affected in negative way while ...
The influence of powered prostheses on user perspectives ...
The efficacy of powered ankles has been shown in active, high functioning individuals with transtibial amputation, but is less clear in other ...
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withpower.com
withpower.com/trial/phase-ambulation-with-the-take-home-or-passive-prosthesis-3-2026-1f5a8Motorized Prosthesis for Walking with a Prosthetic Leg
The study compares walking ability using a motorized prosthetic leg versus a regular passive prosthesis. Participants will try both types while ...
Preliminary Results on Energy Efficient 3D Prosthetic Walking ...
Abstract—This work presents the preliminary experimental validation of a systematic prosthetic control strategy on a.
Advances in prosthetic technology: a perspective on ethical ...
This article, based on current literature, presents perspectives surrounding ethical considerations from the authors' multidisciplinary views as prosthetists.
Investigation of Motorized Lower-limb Prostheses
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a motorized prosthesis can improve mobility in individuals with amputation.
Psychology's role in developing pioneering prosthetics
Previous studies of upper limb amputees have found rejection rates as high as 81%. Even for the most expensive electric prosthetics, reported a ...
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