Ground reaction forces in perturbed standing balance of above-knee prosthesis users

Postural control and balance are challenging tasks for lower limb prosthesis users due to the absence of somatosensory data from the amputated side and limitation of a prosthetic device in comparison to the natural lower limb. A study was developed to evaluate the standing balance of above-knee prosthesis users and non-amputees during perturbations which simulate tending to front and back falling. In addition, the effect of using insoles on balance was assessed. Significant differences were observed between the ground reaction forces (GRF) of the two groups which showed amputees asymmetrical balance and relatively higher reliance on their intact limb. In addition, faller amputees relied more on their intact limb, and non-faller amputees had larger M/L forces which seem to help them to have better balance.