Work

Floor-to-stand transition strategies observed in individuals with unilateral transfemoral amputation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Lower-limb amputation is frequently associated with impaired mobility and an elevated risk of falls, making the restoration of functional independence a primary objective in rehabilitation. The ability to rise from the floor—referred to as the floor-to-stand transition (FTST)—is essential for post-fall recovery; however, the movement strategies employed by individuals with unilateral transfemoral amputation (uTFA) remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to characterize FTST strategies in a sample of individuals with uTFA and examine potential demographic differences between the observed strategy groups. Sixteen individuals with uTFA performed a single FTST trial from a long-sitting position. Movements were video-recorded and evaluated by independent reviewers. Two distinct FTST strategies were observed in the present sample: (i) a rise primarily supported by the intact limb with assistance from one or both upper limbs ( n = 11), and (ii) a trunk rotation into a quadruped-like posture followed by bilateral hand support to achieve standing ( n = 5). No statistically significant differences in demographic or clinical characteristics were observed between groups. However, participants who adopted the trunk-rotation strategy tended to be older and required more time to complete the FTST than those who adopted the intact-limb strategy, although these differences did not reach statistical significance. These findings highlight the compensatory biomechanical adaptations employed by individuals with uTFA in the absence of active knee control. Rehabilitation should therefore emphasize movement-specific training that accounts for biomechanical demands and age-related differences to enhance safety and efficiency during post-fall recovery.

Source: Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences

DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2026.1959397

Authors: Yukihiko Mizuno, Ryota Morishima, Shio Katoh, Genki Hisano, Hiroaki Hobara

Institutions: Tokyo University of Science, Arts et Métiers, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak

Language: English

Topic: Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Robotics

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353