Exploring the Role of Myoelectric Control Ankles in Transtibial Amputees with Normal Walking Gait and Stair Usage
Date of Award
Spring 5-9-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Amy Funke
Abstract
Trauma, comorbidities, and birth defects have led to a wider population of amputees with a limited source of normality. The use of myoelectric control is an advanced technology that is currently used more in the upper extremity amputee population than the lower extremity amputee population. People with transtibial amputation would benefit from myoelectric technology during both normal walking and stair usage. This study utilized three groups of five participants who underwent a two-year-long study to see if the myoelectric control ankle can have the function of a normal walking gait and stair usage. Four muscle groups, tibialis anterior, medial gastrocnemius, vastus lateralis, and femoris biceps, are looked at and studied with the sensors set up on the residual limb. The OptiTrack Capture system and sensors were used to collect the data and compare the results with previous studies. These findings would provide additional evidence to include the use of myoelectric-controlled prostheses in transtibial prostheses and improve the ability to perform activities like ascending and descending stairs.