Gait Deviations

As part of amputee rehabilitation and gait retraining, it is essential to observe and analyse the deviations present during gait (Spires, Kelly & Davis, 2013). These observational findings can be used to guide further evaluation of the patient’s range, strength, balance and other limitations, which will then direct interventions and gait retraining, in order to provide the most effective rehabilitation (Murphy, 2013; Hyland, 2009). As prosthetic issues can also contribute to gait deviations, the prosthetist will be able to make modifications in order to ensure the prosthesis is the best design for the patient (Spires, Kelly & Davis, 2013).

Typically in lower limb amputees, there are decreases in speed and step length (Rábago & Wilken, 2016). The common deviations can be separated into swing and stance phases, as well as proximal trunk and upper limb deviations.

References:

Hyland, N. W. (2009). A comparative analysis of two gait training approaches for individuals with transtibial amputation. Seton Hall University. Retrieved from: https://search.proquest.com/openview/5a37ff53f099f36fa6d7a42866ed9fa1/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y

iKnowledge (2015). Assessment of gait. Retrieved from: https://clinicalgate.com/assessment-of-gait/

Murphy, D. (2013). Fundamentals of Amputation Care and Prosthetics. New York: Demos Medical Publishing.

Rábago, C. A., & Wilken, J. M. (2016). The Prevalence of Gait Deviations in Individuals With Transtibial Amputation. Military Medicine, 181(11), 30- 37. Retrieved from: http://militarymedicine.amsus.org/pb-assets/Supplements/Raising_the_Bar_Special%20Issue_sm.pdf#page=32

Spires, M. C., Kelly, B., & Davis, A. (2013). Prosthetic restoration and rehabilitation of the upper and lower extremity. New York: Demos Medical Publishing

TFA Deviations

TTA Deviations

Proximal Deviations

Gait cycle (iKnowledge, 2015)