This research is being done to test a new device, called the Somatosensation Device, with people who have either a below knee amputation, or neuropathy (i.e. decreased sensation) in their legs. When people have lost sensation in their feet, it may make walking and balance more difficult. The Somatosensation Device is designed to substitute the loss of feeling in a foot by pressing on nerves on the surface of the leg. It presses on the nerves by using a pneumatic balloon to put pressure on your skin. If people receive this extra sensation feedback, it may help improve their walking and balance.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
12
The somatosensation device will be worn on the lower limb (either the residual limb for an amputee, or limb with decreased sensation for a participant with diabetic neuropathy) while performing outcome measures.
Participants will perform outcome measures without wearing the somatosensation device.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Functional Gait Assessment (FGA)
The Functional Gait Assessment is a test to assess an individual's postural stability and ability to perform multiple motor tasks while walking. Tests include walking at different speeds, walking with head turns, turns, stepping over obstacles, walking tandem, walking with eyes closed, walking backwards, and stair navigation. Scores are on a 0-30 scale, with higher scores showing better balance and mobility.
Time frame: Baseline, during the intervention
10 Meter Walk Test
The 10MWT assesses walking speed in meters per second. In the 10MWT, subjects are directed to walk at their self-selected and maximum safe speed with the effects of acceleration and deceleration minimized (by adding 2 meters at the beginning and at the end of the course to isolate the subject's steady state speed). Any assistive device and orthotic should be kept consistent and documented. Participants will complete three trials at their self-selected speed and three trials at their fast but still safe speed. This will be performed over the GAITRite electronic walkway, to measure temporal-spatial gait parameters.
Time frame: Baseline, during the intervention
Mini-BESTest
A multi-task balance assessment that identifies postural control problems across a wide variety of situations.
Time frame: Baseline, during the intervention
Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC)
A self-reported questionnaire that measures a participant's confidence in their balance in performing various activities without falling or becoming unsteady. Scores are on a 0-100% confidence scale, with higher scores equaling greater confidence.
Time frame: Baseline, during the intervention
Vestibular Disorders Activities of Daily Living Scale (VADL)
A self-reported questionnaire that evaluates the effects of vertigo and balance disorders on independence routine activities of daily living. Scores range from 1-8, with lower scores indicating greater independence with activities.
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Time frame: Baseline, during the intervention