College
College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Date of Last Revision
2023-05-04 20:07:24
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Honors Course
4800-499-002
Number of Credits
3
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2021
Abstract
The objective of this study is to determine the feasibility of improving the gait of above-knee (AK) amputees by performing daily core exercises aimed to provide an efficient and stable walking pattern. The goal of the exercise is to strengthen core muscles and form temporary neural connections in the brain aimed at improving metabolic efficiency and stability. We will be implementing the Wright Balance Core 360 Exercise Technique for completion by our subjects. Motion capture technology will be utilized in conjunction with a metabolic oxygen consumption analyzer to collect stability and metabolic efficiency data while amputees walk on a treadmill. By performing these core exercises for eight consecutive weeks, it is our hope that participants with AK amputations will experience significant improvement during walking through increased stability and efficient metabolic expenditure. This feasibility study aims to determine the extent to which improvements are realized in these two areas with the hope that amputee patients will experience increased confidence while participating in physical activity as well as reduced risk of injury due to falls. This study was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, despite the setbacks, the team was given the opportunity to not only learn about rehabilitation of amputee patients, but gained hands-on experience working with the gait lab instrumentation as well as familiarity with conduction of a human subject research study. It is intended that once vaccinations are complete, patients from Yanke Bionics will be recruited, and the full feasibility study will be completed.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Lawrence Noble
First Reader
Dr. Audrey Nguyen
Second Reader
Dr. Adel Alhalawani
Honors Faculty Advisor
Dr. James Keszenheimer
Recommended Citation
Tiell, Shaye M.; Segretario, Sabrina R.; Myers, Serena M.; and Tully, Emily G., "Feasibility Study to Measure the Impact of a Specialized Core Exercise on Metabolic Efficiency and Stability during Walking for Above Knee Amputees" (2021). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1338.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1338