Prosthetic and Orthotic Dynamic Alignment for Rehabilitation

The efficacy of prosthetic feet and ankle foot orthoses depends on a proper tuning (alignment) of these components to the user. Tuning involves selecting the right mechanical properties (e.g stiffness and length) and selecting the proper orientation of the device relative to biological leg of the user. Proper tuning will enhance progression and propulsion of the body during the stance phase of walking. This will improve gait stability and gait economy. In a series of projects we aim to find clinically applicable outcome measures to quantify the effect of tuning on body progression and propulsion (e.g shank-to-vertical-angle and roll-over shape). In addition, we investigate the effect of changes in these outcomes on gait stability and economy. The results of these projects will be used to develop a clinical tool for dynamic alignment prosthesis and orthosis in clinical practice.

Project Parameters



Launch Date: 2010

Research Partners

OIM Amsterdam Motek

Related Research Themes & Projects

Kinetic gait data to quantify socket fit and prosthetic alignment in amputees

To improve clinical practice it is important to quantify prosthetic alignment. Recently studies have shown that kinetic alignment criteria are feasible for alignment purposes. Therefore, it is this study’s goal to investigate the possible use of kinetic alignment criteria to optimize prosthetic functioning.

Running specific prostheses and orthoses

For people with lower limb impairments their running ability can be restored or enhanced using assistive technology that supports this behavior in the leg. For amputees this application is well known as their conventional prosthetic feet are replaced by carbon blades. In a series of projects the properties of running prosthetic and orthotic blades are investigated with specific focus on the question how the interaction between user and blade affects the running performance.

Like What You See?

Contact Us