Glenn Klute, Ph.D.
VA Center of Excellence for Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering
E-mail: gklute@u...


TITLE:

"Balance and Preventing Falls by Lower Limb Amputees"


ABSTRACT:

Lower limb amputees represent an increasingly large population due to the burgeoning
numbers of older diabetic Americans.  This patient population often presents with
significant peripheral neuropathies which are functionally evident in low balance
confidence, a fear of falling, and a higher incidence rate of injurious falls.  The result,
when combined with limb amputation, is a significant reduction in mobility and
independence.  Prevention of this decline is predicated on the ability to balance while
walking.

This seminar will provide an overview of currently available lower limb prosthetic
components, how amputees actually use them, and our research intended to improve
the ability of amputees to balance while walking