The goal of this observational study is to investigate the effects of transtibial amputation on core function and endurance, and their relationship with proprioception, balance, and gait in adults with transtibial amputation and healthy controls. The main questions it aims to answer are: Do individuals with transtibial amputation show reduced core function and endurance compared to non-amputees? Is there a relationship between core function/endurance and proprioception, balance, and gait performance in transtibial amputees? Researchers will compare individuals with transtibial amputation to non-amputee individuals to see if there are significant differences in core endurance, posture, and functional abilities. Participants will: Perform tests to assess core function and muscular endurance Undergo evaluations of proprioception, balance, and gait
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
26
Participants will undergo a series of evaluations including core muscle function tests, endurance assessments, proprioceptive measurements, balance testing, and gait analysis. These assessments are non-invasive and observational, aimed at comparing functional performance between individuals with transtibial amputation and healthy controls. No interventions will be applied; only assessments will be conducted.
Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)
Knee Joint Position Sense (Proprioception)
Position sense of the knee joints in both amputated and intact limbs will be measured using a dual digital inclinometer (ACUMAR™, Lafayette, USA). Participants are instructed and trained before testing. The participant was asked to lie prone with the knee positioned at 40 degrees. After learning this angle, the participant was asked to reproduce the remembered angle independently. The difference between the target angle and the reproduced angle was recorded. This procedure was repeated three times.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Trunk Position Sense (Proprioception)
Position sense of the trunk will be measured using a dual digital inclinometer (ACUMAR™, Lafayette, USA). Tests are conducted barefoot on a firm surface with eyes closed. Participants are instructed and trained before testing. For trunk position sense, inclinometers are placed on T1 and S1 spinous processes, and participants perform 30-degree trunk flexion movements and then return to neutral, attempting to replicate the angle three times.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Core Muscle Function
Core muscle function will be assessed by measuring transversus abdominis (TrA) muscle strength using the Stabilizer Pressure Biofeedback Unit (Chattanooga Group Inc, USA). Participants lie prone with pressure set at 70 mmHg and perform the abdominal drawing-in maneuver three times for 10 seconds each; the average pressure change is recorded.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Core Muscle Endurance (Trunk Flexor)
Core muscle endurance will be evaluated through McGill's endurance tests including trunk flexor, trunk extensor, and lateral plank tests. The trunk flexor test involves maintaining a 55-degree flexion position until the participant can no longer hold it. For all tests, participants will be asked to maintain the position for as long as possible, and the duration will be recorded.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Core Muscle Endurance (Trunk Extansor)
Core muscle endurance will be evaluated through McGill's endurance tests including trunk flexor, trunk extensor, and lateral plank tests. The trunk extensor test is performed prone with pelvis, hips, and knees stabilized; participants hold a horizontal position until failure. For all tests, participants will be asked to maintain the position for as long as possible, and the duration will be recorded.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Core Muscle Endurance (Lateral Plank)
Core muscle endurance will be evaluated through McGill's endurance tests including trunk flexor, trunk extensor, and lateral plank tests. The lateral plank test requires participants to maintain a side-lying plank position with the body aligned until loss of form or contact with the ground. For all tests, participants will be asked to maintain the position for as long as possible, and the duration will be recorded.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Balance
Static balance will be evaluated using the single-leg stance test. Participants are asked to stand unsupported on one leg while maintaining balance. The duration they can hold this position is measured with a stopwatch and recorded in seconds
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
Gait Speed
Gait speed will be assessed using the 10-meter walk test. Participants start from a standing position and walk 10 meters at their comfortable walking speed. The time to complete the 10 meters is measured with a stopwatch.
Time frame: Single assessment at time of participant enrollment
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.