Comparison between biomechanical characteristics of stainless steel and bamboo pylons: A preliminary study

Abstract

A total of 10 subjects with unilateral transtibial amputations had performed walking with tube adapter prostheses from Bamboo and Stainless Steel components. The objective of the study was to determine whether mass differences had an effect on amputees walking. Full biomechanics characteristics were analysed by using the motion analysis system. Further, energy cost and mechanical power of transfers within and between segments were calculated during steady state walking at self selected velocities. The study of biomechanical characteristics and energy expenditure of lower extremity amputations between these two types of shank prostheses was a continuous study from development of transtibial pylon from low cost material. The results indicated that there was no significant effect to gait properties; cadence, and stride velocity. However, the older persons and established walkers benefit most from the use of bamboo components in the prosthetic legs in their energy consumption and mechanical power. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.