Improving weight bearing asymmetry in unilateral lower limb amputees by use of an insole pressure sensor-based electro-tactile biofeedback system
Résumé
The upright stance of persons with unilateral lower limb amputation is characterized by weight bearing asymmetry with more weight on the non-affected limb. Over the long term, asymmetric weight bearing can lead to complications, such as pain and premature arthrosis of the non-affected limb, as well as additional blood flow deficits in persons with vascular disease. Within this context, training for symmetrical weight bearing represents an important issue in the rehabilitation of unilateral lower limb amputees. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of an insole pressure sensor-based electro-tactile biofeedback system in improving weight bearing asymmetry in lower limb amputees. To achieve this goal, the limb load asymmetry, representing the ratio of body weight fraction put on the more loaded limb to the less loaded limb, was measured in 20 unilateral lower limb amputees (10 transtibial and 10 transfemoral) and 10 able-bodies persons, when standing upright with their eyes closed in two conditions of No-biofeedback and Biofeedback. The No-biofeedback condition served as a control condition. In the Biofeedback condition, participants used an insole pressure sensor-based electro-tactile biofeedback system.