At a glance - Differences in function and safety between Medicare Functional Classification Level-2 and -3 transfemoral amputees and influence of prosthetic knee joint control

JRRD at a Glance

Differences in function and safety between Medicare Functional Classification Level-2 and -3 transfemoral amputees and influence of prosthetic knee joint control

Brian J. Hafner, PhD; Douglas G. Smith, MD

Advanced prosthetic technology, often recommended for younger, more active people with amputation, may also greatly benefit those who are older and more limited by their disability. This research found that, like active users, limited users also receive functional benefits when walking on level ground, stairs, hills, and uneven terrain while using a microprocessor-controlled prosthesis. Using this type of prosthesis, less active users also experienced fewer falls and reported increased confidence. Because these individuals represent the majority of veterans with amputation, these study results suggest that advanced prosthesis technology has great potential for improving their real-world function and personal safety.

Volume 46 Number 3, 2009
Pages 417 — 434

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