The Effects of Isokinetic Hip Muscles Training on Gait
Performance in Above-Knee Amputees: A Quasi-
Experimental Study
Tipchatyotin S, MD¹, Choochuay S, MD¹, Kaewwongkot C, PT¹, Wongphaet P, MD²
Affiliation : ¹ Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand ² Samrong General Hospital, Samut Prakan, Thailand
Background: Hip muscle strengthening was recommended for the above-knee amputee patients and expected gait correction.
However, effectiveness of this training was not clearly described.
Objective: To evaluate the effect of hip muscles strengthening exercise on gait performance in the above knee amputees.
Materials and Methods: The unilateral above-knee amputees aged between 25 to 70 years old were invited into the study. All participants were K level 2 to 4 and independent without gait aid. Exercise program included isokinetic training of hip muscles of the amputated leg was performed in the rehabilitation center twice a week for three weeks. Outcome measures included pre- and post-exercise gait analysis and peak torque of hip muscles of the amputated leg.
Results: Eight subjects were included in the present study. Gait analysis showed no significant change between pre- and post- exercise of comfortable walking speed, step length, and cadence (p>0.05). There was a significant reduction (50%) in pelvic tilting amplitude (p<0.05). Post-exercise mean peak torque of the all hip muscles significantly increased from pre-exercise in all hip muscle groups.
Conclusion: A 3-week isokinetic training program of hip muscles improved hip strength and pelvic control during gait. However, there was no significance change of gait speed, step length, and cadence.
Received 23 Sep 2019 | Revised 19 Dec 2019 | Accepted 21 Dec 2019
Keywords : Isokinetic, Hip muscle strengthening, Gait analysis, Above knee amputee
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