Variability of Gait Parameters of Unilateral Trans-tibial Amputees in Different Walking Speeds

Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare the gait parameters of unilateral transtibial amputeeswalking with variable walking speeds.Methodology: The study was based on the assessment of gait in different walking speeds and theircomparison. Age and sex matched six subjects of unilateral involvement were selected. They underwentwalking for a fixed time interval with self selected walking velocity (S-SWV), a slower walking speed (37%lower than S-SWV) and a higher speed (41% greater than S-SWV). Gait analysis of the selected subject wasdone using Computer Dynography (CDG) gait analyzer. Physiological cost index (PCI) data was calculatedmeasuring the heart rate by a telemetry system.Result: Gait cycle duration decreased with speed increment. The step time parameters including singlesupport time single swing time, step length were significantly reduced (p<0.05) with the speed diminutionwhile double support in both limb and step duration in prosthetic limb was augmented (p<0.05). The groundreaction force patterns were moreover similar in different walking speeds however there was a significantdifference in the force amplitude and rate of increment with slower to higher speed.Conclusion: Significant changes in gait parameters showed that amputee’s gait is not normalized in variouswalking speeds.