1: Acta Otolaryngol 2000 Mar;120(2):168-72

 


Postural behaviour responses to visual stimulation in patients with vestibular disorders.

Suarez H, Muse P, Suarez A, Arocena M.

Laboratory of Audiology and Vestibular Pathophysiology,
School of Medicine, Montevideo, Uruguay. hsuarez@chasque.apc.org

Patients with different vestibular disorders exhibit changes in postural behaviour when they receive visual stimuli, reproducing environmental stimulation. Postural control was studied using an
AMTI Accusway platform, measuring the confidential ellipse (CE) and sway velocity (SV). Postural responses were recorded according to the following stimulation paradigm: i) without specific stimuli; ii) smooth pursuit with pure sinusoids of 0.2 Hz (foveal stimulation); and iii) optokinetic stimulation (retinal stimuli). Patients with central vestibular disorders (CVD), cerebellar damage and unilateral peripheral vestibular lesions (UPVL) in asymptomatic periods were studied. A group of normal subjects was studied as control. Signal processing was done with a scalogram by wavelets in order to observe the relation between time and frequency in postural control. While patients with CVD and cerebellar disease showed a significant increase in CE and SV in the three conditions of the paradigm compared to the normal group, the patients with UPVL showed no change. Wavelets processing showed that the main sway occurs in the Y axis (antero-posterior) and below at 0.4 Hz in normal subjects, while the CVD and cerebellar patients showed sway frequencies in both the X and Y axes. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

PMID: 11603765 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


2: IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2001 Sep;9(3):295-301

 


Setup and procedure for online identification of electrically stimulated muscle with Matlab Simulink.

Ponikvar M, Munih M.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. matijap@robo.fe.uni-lj.si

This paper first describes a laboratory setup for biomechanical experiments that runs within the universal simulation environment Matlab Simulink. The overall system comprises a personal computer, two
AMTI (Advanced Mechanical Technology, Inc., Watertown, MA 02472) force plates, Parotec force-sensor shoe insoles, Optotrak system for noncontact three-dimensional (3-D)-position measuring, and a computer-controlled four-channel electrical stimulator. Conceptually, the most important application is implementation of closed-loop electrical stimulation of intact and paralyzed subjects in the laboratory. Second, the system was tested in real-time muscle model identification procedure during a standing experiment. The plantarflexors of three nonimpaired subjects were excited with pseudorandom binary sequences (PRBSs) with small deviations around selected operating points. Electrically stimulated muscles were presented with a linear local dynamic block that was identified with a recursive least-square method (RARX). RARX block was designed with fundamental Matlab Simulink blocks that support real-time operation. Introduced was online estimation of model output, which offers a great manner of instant model validation. Two modes of operation with online validation were tested. In the first mode, the operating point for selected excitation level was identified online. In the second mode, the operating point was measured in preceding experiments. Both procedures resulted in satisfying second-order models that will be used in the adaptive controller design.

PMID: 11561666 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


3: Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 1997 Oct;12(7-8):419-428

 


Box tilt and knee motions in manual lifting: two differential factors in expert and novice workers.

Gagnon M.

Laboratoire de biomecanique, Departement d'education physique, Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

OBJECTIVE: It was the objective of this study to investigate the kinematic and kinetic effects of two specific handling factors that differentiate expert and novice workers, namely the level of knee flexion and box tilt. DESIGN: Seven inexperienced subjects were required to lift a 12-kg box in the sagittal plane using three different strategies: (1) reduced knee flexion and a backward box tilt (more typical of experts); (2) large knee flexion and a backward box tilt; (3) large knee flexion and no box tilt (more typical of novices). BACKGROUND: The lifting techniques of highly skilled workers differ substantially from those of novices but only limited information is available to compare their biomechanical differences. METHODS: The methods included dynamic segmental analyses to calculate the net moments at all body joints and a planar single-muscle equivalent to estimate compression loadings at L5/S1; total work and joint work distribution were calculated using the integration of joint power. The 3-D kinematic data were acquired with three video cameras and force data were obtained with one AMTI force platform which were synchronized with the film data. RESULTS: Box tilt reduced the load trajectory and loadings on the lower back and shoulders; a reduced knee flexion affected body posture and reduced mechanical work and loadings on all body joints. The combination of these two factors, box tilt and reduced knee flexion, showed added effects for almost all variables. CONCLUSIONS: These two factors proper to experts were, in this context, biomechanically more advantageous.

PMID: 11415751 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]


4: Surg Radiol Anat 2001;23(1):27-31

 


Influence of the mode of load carriage on the static posture of the pelvic girdle and the thoracic and lumbar spine in vivo.

Filaire M, Vacheron JJ, Vanneuville G, Poumarat G, Garcier JM, Harouna Y, Guillot M, Terver S, Toumi H, Thierry C.

Laboratoire d'Anatomie, Faculte de Medecine, B.P. 38, F-63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France.

The influence of various modes of carrying a load of 16 kg (15.69 DaN) on the static positioning of the pelvic girdle and the thoracic and lumbar segments of the spine was examined in seven male subjects. The displacement of cutaneous markers attached to easily palpable skeletal landmarks was recorded using 4 CCD cameras; the data acquired were analysed using an optoelectronic technique (SAGA3). The subjects stood upright on an AMTI biomechanical force platform, from which the ground reaction forces enabled displacements of the centre of gravity axis and thus the moment of the mass carried to be determined. The modes of load carriage examined were: 1) in a case in the left hand; 2) in a case in the right hand; 3) equally in two cases; 4) on the head; 5) in a rucksack; and 6) in an anterior bag. The results showed displacements of the pelvic girdle, the caudal and cranial lumbar segments, and the caudal and cranial thoracic segments in the three orthogonal planes (sagittal, frontal and transverse). The influence of the moment created by the load was seen in the statokinesigrams. The use of external markers using an optoelectronic technique, in association with the ground reaction forces, enables the mode of load carriage to be determined. The results show that the influence of the moment exerted by the mode of load carriage on the gravity axis has important ergonomic consequences.

PMID: 11370138 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


5: Acta Otolaryngol 2001 Jan;121(2):220-4

 


Assessment of the risk of fall, related to visual stimulation, in patients with central vestibular disorders.

Suarez H, Muse P, Suarez A, Arocena M.

Laboratory of Audiology and Vestibular Pathophysiology,
School of Medicine, Montevideo, Uruguay. hsuarez@chasque.apc.org

In order to assess the influence of visual stimulation in the triggering of imbalance and falls in the elderly population, the postural responses of 18 elderly patients with central vestibular disorders and clinical evidence of instability and falls were studied while receiving different types of visual stimuli. The stimulation conditions were: (i) no specific stimuli; (ii) smooth pursuit with pure sinusoids of 0.2 Hz as foveal stimulation; and (iii) optokinetic stimulation (OK) as retinal stimuli. Using a platform
AMTI Accusway platform, the 95% confidence ellipse (CE) and sway velocity (SV) were evaluated with a scalogram using wavelets in order to assess the relationship between time and frequency in postural control. Velocity histograms were also constructed in order to observe the distribution of velocity values during the recording. A non-homogeneous postural behavior after visual stimulation was found among this population. In five of the patients the OK stimulation generated: (i) significantly higher average values of CE ( > 3.4+/-0.69 cm2); (ii) a significant increase in the average values of the SV ( > 3.89+/-1.15 cm/s) and a velocity histogram with a homogeneous distribution between 0 and 18 cm/s; and (iii) a scalogram with sway frequencies of up to 4 Hz distributed in both the X and Y directions (backwards and forwards and lateral) during visual stimulation with arbitrary units of energy density > 5. These three qualitative and quantitative aspects could be "markers" of visual dependence in the triggering of the mechanism of lack of equilibrium and hence falls in some elderly patients and should be considered in order to prevent falls and also to assist in the rehabilitation program of these patients.

PMID: 11349783 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


6: Am J Knee Surg 2000 Spring;13(2):103-8; discussion 108-9

 


Walking, chair rising, and stair climbing after total knee arthroplasty: patellar resurfacing versus nonresurfacing.

Pollo FE, Jackson RW, Koeter S, Ansari S, Motley GS, Rathjen KW.

Department of Orthopedic Surgery,
Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Tex 75246, USA.

During the past decade, the technology and design of knee joint prostheses has progressed considerably. However, there is still much controversy on whether resurfacing the patella during routine total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is necessary. This study compares the biomechanics of the lower limb in patients after TKA with and without patellar resurfacing during level walking, stair climbing, and chair rising. Eighteen patients who underwent TKA by two different surgeons using the same prosthesis were studied after full rehabilitation while walking, stair climbing, and chair rising. Patients were divided between those who were resurfaced and those who were not resurfaced. An aged-matched control population was recruited for comparison. The Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Rating Scale was used to gather clinical information. Kinematic and kinetic parameters were collected using a 5-camera Motion Analysis System and an
AMTI OR6-5 force platform. For level walking, patients were asked to walk at a self-selected speed down an 8-m walkway. For stair climbing, patients were asked to climb a 4-step staircase without handrail support and for chair rising, patients were asked to rise from a chair that was positioned at the height of their knee joint line. Five trials for each side were recorded for averaging and statistical analysis. Temporal-spatial parameters and kinematic and kinetic variables at the knee joint were tested for significance using the repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). There were no significant differences in the biomechanics of walking, stair climbing, or chair rising between patients after TKA with and without a resurfaced patella.

PMID: 11281331 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


7: Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2001 Jan;82(1):80-5

 


Postural control in the elderly: an analysis of test-retest and interrater reliability of the COP-COM variable.

Corriveau H, Hebert R, Prince F, Raiche M.

School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Physiotherapy, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont, Canada. hcorrive@uottawa.ca

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the test-retest and interrater reliability of the center of pressure-center of mass (COP-COM) variable of postural control in the elderly. DESIGN: The biomechanic variable COP-COM, which represents the distance between the COP and the COM, was determined from 2
AMTI force platforms and 3 OPTOTRAK position sensors. Measurements were taken in quiet position, double leg stance, and eyes open and eyes closed conditions. SETTING: Laboratory environment. PARTICIPANTS: Forty-five healthy subjects, 8 patients with diabetes neuropathy, and 7 stroke survivors, all of whom were at least 60 years old. INTERVENTIONS: Subjects were evaluated on 2 separate occasions within 7 days by the same evaluator to determine test-retest reliability. Interrater reliability was determined the same day. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The biomechanic variable COP-COM, which represents the distance between the COP and the COM in terms of root mean square. The mean of 4 trials of the COP-COM variable for each condition was used for statistical analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used. RESULTS: The COP-COM variable has good reliability for both the test-retest and interrater studies, but its reliability varies according to the direction of the COP-COM. For the test-retest and interrater studies, the ICC ranged from.89 to.93 in the anteroposterior direction and from.74 to.79 in the mediolateral direction. CONCLUSION: The equivalence of the test-retest and interrater coefficients obtained suggests that the measurement error of the COP-COM variable is mainly linked to the biologic variability of this measure over a short period of time. Using the mean of 4 trials stabilizes the COP-COM variable enough to be potentially used to evaluate clinical change.

PMID: 11239290 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


8: Gait Posture 2000 Oct;12(2):128-33

 


Comparison of an in-shoe pressure measurement device to a force plate: concurrent validity of center of pressure measurements.

Chesnin KJ, Selby-Silverstein L, Besser MP.

Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, 130 S. 9th St., Suite 830, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5233, USA. chesnink@asme.org

The purpose of this study was to assess the concurrent validity of center of pressure (COP) measurements during walking, comparing the Parotec System (an in-shoe pressure measurement device) to an Advanced Mechanical Technology Inc.
(AMTI) force plate. Pearson correlation coefficients comparing COP displacement in the medial-lateral (ML) and anterior-posterior (AP) direction calculated from the two systems were greater than 0.70 for 52/67 trials (78%) in the ML direction and were greater than 0.90 for 67/67 trials (100%) in the AP direction. The mean root mean square (RMS) error for COP displacement in the ML direction was 0.56+/-0.3 cm and in the AP direction was 1.37+/-0.59 cm. Overall, the Parotec System showed good correlation and small RMS errors when compared to the AMTI force plate. Additional analysis to investigate sources of error pointed to the methods used for calculating the position and orientation of the subject's foot on the force plate. Subsequent analysis to eliminate some of these errors, compared force calculated from the Parotec System and the AMTI plate and showed good to excellent correlation (>0.70) for 62/67 trials (93%). Additional data were collected that allowed for elimination of methodological errors. Again force calculated from the two systems was compared using Pearsons. These data showed excellent correlation (>0.90) for 20/20 trials (100%). This study provides evidence of the validity of the Parotec System for measuring COP during ambulation.

Publication Types:

·         ·         Validation Studies


PMID: 10998609 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


9: Med Sci Sports Exerc 1999 Oct;31(10):1374-81

 


Etiologic factors associated with Achilles tendinitis in runners.

McCrory JL, Martin DF, Lowery RB, Cannon DW, Curl WW, Read HM Jr, Hunter DM, Craven T, Messier SP.

Department of Health and Exercise Science,
Wake Forest University, Winston- Salem, NC 27109, USA.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether relationships exist between selected training, anthropometric, isokinetic muscular strength, and endurance, ground reaction force, and rearfoot movement variables in runners afflicted with Achilles tendinitis. METHODS: Specifically, we examined differences in selected measures between a noninjured cohort of runners (N = 58) and a cohort of injured runners with Achilles tendinitis (N = 31). Isokinetic, kinetic, and kinematic measures were collected using a Cybex II+ isokinetic dynamometer (
Medway, MA), AMTI force plate (500 Hz), and Motion Analysis high-speed videography (200 Hz), respectively. Separate discriminant function analyses were performed on each of the five sets of variables to identify the factors that best discriminate between the injured and control groups. RESULTS: Years running, training pace, stretching habits (injured runners were less likely to incorporate stretching into their training routine), touchdown angle, plantar flexion peak torque at 180 degrees x s(-1) and arch index were found to be significant discriminators. CONCLUSION: A combined discriminant analysis using the above mentioned significant variables revealed that plantar flexion peak torque, touchdown angle, and years running were the strongest discriminators between runners afflicted with Achilles tendinitis and runners who had no history of overuse injury.

PMID: 10527307 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


10: Rev Chir Orthop Reparatrice Appar Mot 1999 Sep;85(5):466-74

 


[Influence of knee replacement arthroplasty on modalities of weight transfer during the lateral step]

[Article in French]

Viton JM, Atlani L, Mesure S, Rochwerger A, Franceschi JP, Delarque A, Massion J.

Departement Universitaire de Reeducation et Readaptation, Universite de la Mediterranee, Marseille.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this work was to study the relations between equilibrium and movement in patients after total knee arthroplasty. A previous study, conducted in patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis, had shown that the timing of the events occurring during a side-step was modified in an asymmetrical way according to the supporting leg with respect to the affected one. METHOD: A kinetic and kinematic analysis was performed in a population of 9 patients before and after total knee arthroplasty and in 11 control subjects, using an ELITE system and two AMTI force-plates. The different phases (i.e. postural, monopodal, landing and stabilization) of a side step were studied. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Before surgery, the postural phase was longer and the monopodal phase was shorter in knee arthritis patients when the affected leg was the supporting one than when the sound leg was supporting. Total step duration and landing-stabilization phase duration were longer in patients no matter which leg was supporting than in control subjects. After total knee arthroplasty, the postural phase remained longer when the operated leg was supporting than when the sound leg was supporting. Altered proprioception can provide an explanation for this result. However, the duration of the postural phase decreased significantly when the operated leg was supporting as compared to when the affected leg was supporting before surgery. The duration of the monopodal phase was the same when the operated leg was supporting than when the sound limb was supporting and increased significantly as compared to when the affected leg was supporting before surgery. This result can be related to the decrease of pain which was observed in all patients after surgery. The duration of the landing-stabilization phase and the total movement duration remained longer in patients after surgery no matter which leg was supporting than in control subjects. CONCLUSION: This study shows that relations between equilibrium and movement tend to become symmetrical with respect to the leg used as supporting one in patients after undergoing total knee arthroplasty but remain different from those of control subjects. This movement analysis method enables to determine and to quantify differences in patients before and after undergoing total knee arthroplasty and thus provides additional information for the functional evaluation of patients with total knee prosthesis.

PMID: 10507108 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


11: Rev Chir Orthop Reparatrice Appar Mot 1998 Nov;84(8):705-11

 


[Methods of shifting body weight in patients with knee arthroses]

[Article in French]

Viton JM, Atlani L, Mesure S, Franceschi JP, Massion J, Rochwerger A, Delarque A.

Departement Universitaire de Reeducation et Readaptation, Universite de la Mediterranee, Marseille.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this work was to study movement control strategies in patients with knee arthritis. These strategies were expected to be different from healthy subjects because of deficiencies due to knee arthritis (i.e. pain, altered proprioception). METHOD: A kinetic and kinematic analysis was performed in a population of 10 patients with unilateral knee arthritis and in 11 age-matched control subjects, using an ELITE system and two AMTI force-plates. The different phases of a side step were studied. RESULTS: The timing of the movement was different in the two populations. The postural phase was longer and the monopodal phase was shorter in knee arthritis patients when the affected leg was the supporting one than when the sound leg was supporting. Total step duration and landing-stabilization phase duration were longer in knee arthritis patients than in healthy subjects. CONCLUSION: This movement analysis method enables to determine and to quantify differences between knee arthritis patients and control subjects. Clinical examination cannot identify these differences. Movement analysis methods bring up additional information to usual clinical evaluation scales and could be used for evaluation of the results of total knee arthroplasty.

PMID: 10192121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


12: Biomed Sci Instrum 1997;33:360-5

 


Co-activation of the hamstrings and quadriceps during the lunge exercise.

Hefzy MS, al Khazim M, Harrison L.

Department of Biological & Medical Research,
King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The anterior lunge exercise is a closed chain kinetic exercise that has been developed to improve the function of the lower limb and to strengthen the hamstrings and quadriceps, simultaneously. In this study, a three-dimensional biomechanical analysis of this exercise was conducted in order to understand the mechanics of this rehabilitation activity. Experimental conditions were recorded using an active optoelectronic kinematic data capture system (OPTOTRAK), two force plates (
AMTI) and electromyography (EMG). Data were collected from healthy male subjects while performing several lunges. When the distance between the toe of the rear leg and the heel of the front leg (lunging distance) was maximum, a large net flexion moment was predicted in the front leg in the extented position. This moment was reversed to a large net extension moment in the flexed position. A large increase in the net extension moment in the rear leg was also predicted as the front knee was bent from 5 degrees to 90 degrees of flexion. These data suggest that quadriceps and hamstring muscles co-contraction occur during a maximum lunge in the front leg when it is in the flexed position.

PMID: 9731386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


13: Prosthet Orthot Int 1997 Aug;21(2):114-23

 


The effect of changing the inertia of a trans-tibial dynamic elastic response prosthesis on the kinematics and ground reaction force patterns.

Hillery SC, Wallace ES, McIlhagger R, Watson P.

Department of Leisure and Tourism,
University of Ulster at Jordanstown, Northern Ireland.

The aim of this study was to assess, by means of gait analysis, the effect on the gait of a trans-tibial amputee of altering the mass and the moment of inertia of a dynamic elastic response prosthesis. One male amputee was analysed for four to five walking trials at normal and fast cadences, using the VICON system of motion analysis and an
AMTI force plate. The kinematic variables of cadence, swing time, single support time and joint angles for the knee and hip on the affected and intact sides were analysed. The ground reaction force was also analysed. The sample size was limited to one as an example to indicate the changes which are possible through simply changing the inertial characteristics. Descriptive statistics are used to demonstrate these changes. Three mass conditions for the prosthesis were analysed m1: 1080g; m2: 1080 + 530g; m3: 1080 + 1460g. The m1 condition is the mass of the prosthesis with no added weight while m2 and m3 were attachments of the same geometrical shape but were made from different materials. It was felt that the large mass range would highlight biomechanical adjustments as a result of its alteration. The effect on selected temporal characteristics were that as the speed increased the cadence changed and the affected side single support times as a percentage of the gait cycle were altered. The effect on the joint angles was also apparent at the hip and knee of both sides. The ground reaction force patterns were similar for all three mass conditions, though the impact peak which was evident in the intact limb was missing, indicating a shock absorbing property in the prosthesis. Clearly, changing the mass and moment of inertia has an effect on the kinematic variables of gait and should be considered when designing a prosthesis.

Publication Types:

·         ·         Clinical Trial


PMID: 9285955 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


14: Can J Neurol Sci 1997 Aug;24(3):230-4

 


Chronic stimulation of the left vagus nerve in epilepsy: balance effects.

Clarke BM, Upton AR, Griffin H, Fitzpatrick D, DeNardis M.

Division of Neurology, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

BACKGROUND: Stimulation of the left vagus nerve (VNS) has been shown to control seizures in double blinded crossover studies in man. Animal studies have reported vagal afferent induced depression of nociceptive and motor reflexes which may be caused by an effect on the descending reticular system controlling spinal cord function. Anticonvulsant drug therapy may cause postural instability. The effects of VNS are assessed not only from the perspective of seizure control but also from the view of potential harm to other bodily systems. Long term (2 1/4 years) effects of VNS were compared to postural stability analyses. METHODS: 8 subjects, 2 were females, mean age 34.5 +/- 8.23 SD years, with intractable complex partial seizures, taking 3 anticonvulsant drugs were assessed for postural stability in quiet standing and while moving forwards, backwards and sideways with eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC). Data were collected and collated using an
AMTI Biomechanics immovable forceplate, Newton M.A. U.S.A. The study design was longitudinal with pre-operative baseline data collected prior to neurostimulation and at intervals post operatively. RESULTS: 4/8 balance measures showed significant changes from pre-operative values and after 2 1/4 years of stimulation. Area of sway (EO) in quiet standing p = .022 and total sway (EC) in the moving state p = .019 and total sway (EC) in quiet standing showed an increase in sway p = .003. Area of sway (EC) p = .004 tended to decrease. Regression analysis for frequency of stimulation showed an increase in sway with higher frequencies T = 1.99, P = .05. CONCLUSION: Chronic VNS does not augment postural instability.

Publication Types:

·         ·         Clinical Trial


PMID: 9276109 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


15: Spinal Cord 1997 Apr;35(4):217-22

 


Assisted reach and transfers in individuals with tetraplegia: towards a solution.

Allison GT, Singer KP.

School of Physiotherapy, Curtin University, Shenton Park, Western Australia.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of a prototype trunk orthosis to assist an individual with tetraplegia. A single case study (26 year old male, C5 motor complete) using an interrupted time series analysis was conducted to investigate the individual's ability to reach, forward and laterally, and transfer with and without the orthosis. All tasks were performed on an
AMTI force platform in the long sitting position, with landmarks of the trunk and limbs recorded using Peak Performances Technologies motion analysis system. After a familiarisation period ten trials were attempted for each phase of the analysis. With the orthosis the subject altered the sitting posture and significantly (F = 9.55, P = 0.003) increased the distance the subject was able to reach. The median frequency of the centre of pressure (COP) displacement during the reaching task was not significantly altered. The ability to displace the COP when attempting to transfer increased from 16.0 (+/-3.4 cm) to 19.6 (+/-2.5 cm), however, this was not statistically significant. The likely user population, the overall functional benefits, the compliance of the users and possible modifications to the device to facilitate use with functional electrical stimulation are all possible directions for future research.

PMID: 9143083 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


16: Prosthet Orthot Int 1997 Apr;21(1):17-27

 


Energy storage and release of prosthetic feet. Part 1: Biomechanical analysis related to user benefits.

Postema K, Hermens HJ, de Vries J, Koopman HF, Eisma WH.

St. Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

The energy storing and releasing behaviour of 2 energy storing feet (ESF) and 2 conventional prosthetic feet (CF) were compared (ESF: Otto Bock Dynamic Pro and Hanger Quantum; CF: Otto Bock Multi Axial and Otto Bock Lager). Ten trans-tibial amputees were selected. The study was designed as a double-blind, randomised trial. For gait analysis a VICON motion analysis system was used with 2
AMTI force platforms. A special measuring device was used for measuring energy storage and release of the foot during a simulated step. The impulses of the anteroposterior component of the ground force showed small, statistically non-significant differences (deceleration phase: 22.7-23.4 Ns; acceleration phase: 17.0-18.4 Ns). The power storage and release phases as well as the net results also showed small differences (maximum difference in net result is 0.03 J kg-1). It was estimated that these differences lead to a maximum saving of 3% of metabolic energy during walking. It was considered unlikely that the subjects would notice this difference. It was concluded that during walking differences in mechanical energy expenditure of this magnitude are probably not of clinical relevance. Ankle power, as an indicator for energy storage and release gave different results to the energy storage and release as measured with the special test device, especially during landing response. In the biomechanical model (based on inverse dynamics) used in the gait analysis the deformation of the material is not taken into consideration and hence this method of gait analysis is probably not suitable for calculation of shock absorption.

Publication Types:

·         ·         Clinical Trial

·         ·         Randomized Controlled Trial


PMID: 9141122 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


17: Percept Mot Skills 1997 Feb;84(1):287-90

 


Basic
Beijing twenty-four forms of T'ai Chi exercise and average velocity of sway.

Shih J.

Department of Health, Wellness and Exercise Science/274,
College of Human Community Science, University of Nevada, Reno 89557-0036, USA. jshih@scs.unr.edu

To examine the effect of 16 weeks of T'ai Chi exercise on the average velocity of sway 11 subjects were pre- and posttested by using the
AMTI force platform. Analysis indicated that T'ai Chi exercise was associated with substantial changes in the sway velocities in anterior and posterior directions for the group but was not assessed against any control groups performance. That remains to be evaluated.

PMID: 9132721 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


18: J Biomech 1996 Nov;29(11):1445-53

 


Knee movement strategies differentiate expert from novice workers in asymmetrical manual materials handling.

Gagnon M, Plamondon A, Gravel D, Lortie M.

Departement d'Education Physique, Universite de Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

One way to generate hypotheses on appropriate handling principles is to compare the strategies of highly skilled workers (experts) with those of novice workers (novices). This study was conducted to determine whether experts differ from novices in their handling strategies and to determine the effects of these differences in joint motions and net reaction moments at the trunk (L5/S1) and knees. Six experts and five novices were compared transferring two loads (12 and 22 kg) from four different initial low positions to a standardized low position on a trolley. The external forces were obtained from two AMTI force platforms, and two 16 mm Locam cameras coupled with two mirrors were used to obtain the three-dimensional kinematic data. An inverse dynamic analysis was performed on each segment and the net reaction moments were evaluated at L5/S1 and the knees; trunk posture, knee flexion angles and feet spacings were also calculated. Results showed that both groups minimized trunk asymmetries of posture and efforts; however, the experts were characterized by reduced knee flexion (31 degrees vs 53 degrees) and total knee excursion (20 degrees vs 38 degrees), increased flexion moments (72 vs 58 Nm) but reduced extension moments (4 vs 26 Nm) and valgus moments (30 vs 54 Nm). The experts' strategies appear safer overall because they reduce trunk asymmetry, asymmetrical efforts on the knee and stress on the femoropatellar joint. Moreover, these strategies present a potential for reduced mechanical energy expenditure due to lower knee excursions and increased knee stability due to reduced knee flexion.

PMID: 8894925 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


19: Ergonomics 1995 Jun;38(6):1156-71

 


Effects of symmetry and load absorption of a falling load on 3D trunk muscular moments.

Gagnon M, Plamondon A, Gravel D.

Departement d'education physique, Universite de Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Some epidemiological data have suggested that many physical causes of low back pain such as bending and twisting were, in fact, sudden maximal efforts incidentally carried out at the moment of accident. Sudden loading conditions may be encountered in several circumstances, one of them being the recuperation of a falling load. Such conditions are more likely to occur in conditions of trunk asymmetry. The objective of this study was to determine spinal loadings associated with the reception of a falling box symmetrically and asymmetrically for two mechanisms of load absorption, one limited to the elbows and the other including full absorption with the elbows and lower limbs. It was hypothesized that asymmetrical receptions would be more strenuous for the spine; it was further hypothesized that the full absorption to decelerate the load might be more efficient in reducing the strain in the trunk muscular moments. Nine students in physical education with limited experience in manual materials handling were the subjects of the study. The tasks consisted of receiving a 6.6 kg load falling from a height of 50 cm above the flexed forearms when in a standing position. The subjects were tested with two AMTI force plates and two Locam cameras coupled with two mirrors; dynamic 3D multi-segment models were constructed and the net muscular moments as well as the angular velocities of the trunk relative to pelvis were determined about the three orthogonal axes of the trunk at L5/S1, in twisting, lateral bending, and flexion/extension. The dependent variables included maximal moments, maximal rates of loading for these moments, and the integration of these moments. Statistical analyses were performed to test the main effects of symmetry and absorption and their interaction. The results showed that asymmetrical conditions impose supplementary muscular exertions for trunk muscles, especially the trunk extensors and lateral flexors. Contrary to the proposed hypothesis, full absorption as used in the present study was a condition leading to considerably larger muscular exertions, especially for the loading rates. Thus it was concluded that the process of training for load absorption is essential to effectively decrease the risks of injuries. This factor would merit full consideration in future studies.

PMID: 7758444 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


20: Handchir Mikrochir Plast Chir 1994 Mar;26(2):84-90

 


Comment on:

·         ·         Handchir Mikrochir Plast Chir. 1989 Nov;21(6):315-7.


[Functional follow-up of combined musculocutaneous tensor fasciae latae and rectus femoris flap repair. Supplementary information on the Handchir.
Mikrochir. Plast. Chir. 21 (1989) 315-317 contribution]

[Article in German]

Bochdansky TL, Zauner-Dungl A, Kollmitzer J, Piza-Katzer H.

Universitatsklinik fur Physikalische Medizin und Rehabilitation, Universitat Wien.

As a supplement to our publication in the Journal Handchirurgie, Mikrochirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie 21 (1989) 315-317, we would like to report a five-year follow up of a patient with recurrent sigmoid carcinoma, infiltrating all layers of the abdominal wall. Treatment was by radical tumor excision and reconstruction with a combined tensor fasciae latae and rectus femoris flap. Abdominal wall, hip, and knee functions were evaluated by gait-analysis (Motion Analysis Corporation AMTI) and dynamometry (Cybex 6000). The dynamometry of knee motion showed a slight deficit of the operated side regarding the parameters of strength-endurance as well as work-recovery. All other parameters (peak-torque) were equal for both sides corresponding to the activities of daily living of the patient. Gait-analysis showed a reduced rotation of the pelvis as well as a functional deficit of extension of the knee during stance and swing phase. We can document a good functional result in all motions without major impairment of every-day activities.

Publication Types:

·         ·         Comment


PMID: 8020853 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


21: J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1993 Dec;33(4):359-66

 


Ground reaction forces in high impact and low impact aerobic dance.

Michaud TJ, Rodriguez-Zayas J, Armstrong C, Hartnig M.

Department of Health Promotion and Human Performance,
University of Toledo.

The purpose of this study was to compare ground reaction forces (vertical and lateral) produced during commonly used high and low impact aerobic dance maneuvers. Eight experienced aerobic dance instructors were the volunteer subjects. During the first session, three subjects were videotaped performing 10 high and 10 low impact maneuvers that they commonly used in their own class routines. Seven of the high and nine of the low impact maneuvers were then selected and used in sessions 2 and 3. During the second session, all subjects became proficient in performing the chosen maneuvers to music while striking an
AMTI force platform with the right foot. During the third session, ground reaction force data generated during footstrike were recorded for each movement. Of the maneuvers examined, 5 high and four low impact maneuvers were used in the data analysis. It was found that maximum vertical active peak and vertical impact peak forces were lower for the low impact maneuvers. Maximum lateral active peak and lateral impact peak forces were similar and highly variable in magnitude for the 2 types of dance. The lower vertical loads produced in low impact dancing may make this type of dance better for minimizing lower extremity overuse injuries in aerobic dance. However, there does not seem to be any advantage in emphasizing the use of low impact dance for minimizing lower extremity injuries that evolve from lateral shear forces.

PMID: 8035584 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


22: Orthopedics 1993 Aug;16(8):875-9

 


Gait analysis of dysvascular below-knee and contralateral through-knee bilateral amputees: a preliminary report.

Pinzur MS, Smith D, Tornow D, Meade K, Patwardhan A.

STAMP (Special Team for Amputations, Mobility, Prosthetics/Orthotics),
Hines Veterans Administration Hospital, Ill.

Four elderly peripheral vascular insufficiency below-knee amputees, average age 58, underwent contralateral through-knee amputation for gangrene. All four became household ambulators with end-weight bearing designed prosthetic sockets and four-bar linkage knees. Gait analysis was performed with two
AMTI (Newton, Mass) Biomechanics Force Platforms and a Watsmart Motion Monitoring System (Waterloo, Ontario). All four were observed to apparently "lock" the four-bar linkage prosthetic knee into extension during midstance and double limb support phases of gait. All subjectively felt that their through-knee limb was their more stable limb. Weight-bearing occurred during 63% of the gait cycle on the below-knee limb, 54% on the through-knee limb, and 17% in double limb support. Walking propulsion, as measured by forefoot impulse, was similar in the two limbs. The first peak of vertical force, corresponding to the elevation of the center of body weight as it passes over the weight-bearing limb, averaged 98% of body weight on the through-knee limb and only 93% on the below-knee limb. The second peak, corresponding to the kinetic energy of the falling trunk and muscle function providing linear acceleration of the center of body weight during propulsion, averaged 96% of body weight on the through-knee limb, and only 73% on the below-knee limb. Progression of the center of pressure, a qualitative measure of limb stability, was more orderly in the through-knee limbs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

PMID: 8415271 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


23: Scand J Rheumatol 1992;21(6):297-301

 


Postural control, muscle function and psychological factors in rheumatoid arthritis. Are there any relations?

Ekdahl C.

Department of Physical Therapy,
Lund University, Sweden.

The aim of the present study was to relate postural control, as measured on a quantitative test battery as standing balance on an
AMTI force platform, to results of muscle function of the lower extremities, aerobic capacity, disease characteristics, attitudes revealing anxiety, and demographic variables in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A group of 61 patients with RA was investigated. Multiple regression analyses, using both the stepwise and the backward elimination method, were employed for length of sway path in two-leg standing looking straight ahead and blindfolded as dependent variables. The results revealed postural control in two-leg standing looking straight ahead to be highly related to age and sex but also to isokinetic endurance and to anxiety. In the model, 55% of the variance was explained by these variables at a significance level of p = 0.05. Characteristics of the RA disease, such as c-reactive protein and joint-mobility did not play any major role in explaining postural control.

PMID: 1475640 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


24: J Formos Med Assoc 1991 Feb;90(2):160-6

 


Gait analysis after total knee replacement for degenerative arthritis.

Chen PQ, Cheng CK, Shang HC, Wu JJ.

Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, R.O.C.

Using quantitative gait analysis and clinical evaluation, the functional results of 18 total knee replacement (TKR) in 13 patients who had o