The initiation of gait in lower limb amputees: some related data.

The initiation of gait, from balanced standing position to the toe-off of the stance leg, was analyzed in 8 unilateral above-knee (AK) and 10 unilateral below-knee (BK) males amputees. Thirty-one parameters were measured, including ground-foot forces and the movements and timing of hip, knee, and ankle joints. The significant changes from the normal pattern of initiation of gait found in the AK and BK amputees, as well as significant changes between the two amputees groups themselves, are described. The amputees were divided into two subgroups: those who start walking with their prosthesis and those starting with their normal leg. The two groups were compared statistically for each amputation level and all were compared to a normal subjects group. Differences relating to the choice of the swing leg were found. The findings are reported as part of a future databank.