Recent technical developments of running-specific carbon-fiber prostheses with energy storing capabilities have allowed individuals with lower extremity amputation (ILEA) to compete at levels never before achieved. Additionally, running-specific prostheses (RSPs) have attracted more and more ILEA to running as a form of exercise and athletic competition. However, the advent of RSPs raised a debate in the scientific community regarding whether the RSPs provide potential advantages or disadvantages for ILEA as compared with able-bodied counterparts in running. In the present study, joint stiffness, which is the one of the determinants of running mechanics, was compared between intact and prostheticl leg at various overground running speeds in ILEA wearing RSPs. Eight ILEA performed overground running at a range of running speeds (2.5 to 3.5 m/s). Joint stiffness was calculated from kinetic and kinematic data in both intact and prosthetic limbs. We found that there were no significant differences in ankle and knee stiffness between the legs at all running speeds. Therefore, although we may never be able to quantify all the advantages and disadvantages of running using RSPs, these results suggest that ILEA using RSPs would not receive any technical advantages during running.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.35/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE