Controlling Locomotion over Continuously Varying Activities for Agile Powered Prosthetic Legs

Web Administration Research Studies

Study Location
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI

Research Objectives
Powered leg prostheses can greatly assist individuals with above-knee amputations, but these devices are currently designed for a limited set of activities. This study aims to validate a new way to control powered prosthetic devices to restore walking ability in many different activities.

The study protocol will require participants to walk with their existing prosthesis and with an experimental powered prosthesis during sit-to-stand, level-ground walking, stair ascent/decent, and stepping over obstacles. This video demonstrates these activities: https://youtu.be/sBC12VDbaes

Eligibility Criteria

Participants may be eligible if they meet all of the following criteria:

  • Adults between 18-70 years of age
  • Body weight is 250 lbs. or less
  • Has a single leg above-knee amputation or limb difference

Compensation Details

  • Participants will receive $40 per hour (2-3 sessions, 4 hours each)
  • Travel and lodging reimbursement may be available for eligible participants

Enrollment Closes
February 1, 2029

Time Commitment

  • Study will involve 2-3 sessions (with the option for additional sessions)
  • Each session will take no longer than 4 hours after setup

Contact Person
Robert Gregg, PhD | Email: rdgregg@umich.edu | Phone: 734-763-1156

How to Participate
Interested participants may enroll through the UMHealthResearch web posting here: https://UMHealthResearch.org/studies/HUM00230065. For questions about this study, please email UM-Locolab@umich.edu. Additional information can be found on the Recruitment Flyer.