STUDY OF PAIN, MOTION, AND MUSCLE ACTIVITY FOR LOWER LIMB AMPUTEES

Abstract

This thesis investigates the interplay between pain and gait biomechanics in unilateral transtibial amputees (TTAs) to understand compensatory mechanisms and adaptations in the musculoskeletal system. The aim is to explore how pain influences gait performance by analysing spatial and temporal parameters, kinematics/kinetics, muscle activity, and pain outcomes using advanced tools such as motion capture, force plates, electromyography (EMG), and musculoskeletal modelling. The study first developed a rigorous experimental protocol to acquire multi-modal biomechanics gait data (i.e., marker trajectories, ground reaction force, EMG, and self-reported pain measures). This protocol was then successfully applied to capture gait data from eight able-bodied controls and six individuals with transtibial amputation (TTA). The data analysis and modelling identify significant gait deviations in TTAs, including reduced walking speed, altered stride length, and asymmetrical ground reaction forces, correlating these with pain levels. Advanced musculoskeletal simulations provide further insights into joint kinematics, kinetics, and muscle forces, highlighting the compensatory strategies adopted by amputees. The findings emphasise the need for multidisciplinary approaches in rehabilitation, integrating biomechanical analysis and pain management to enhance mobility and quality of life for TTAs. This research bridges key knowledge gaps, offering practical recommendations for improved prosthetic development and rehabilitation strategies.