Virtual Assessment of Functional Mobility in Lower Extremity Prosthesis Clients: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between patient perception of lower extremity function and a home-based virtual clinician assessment of mobility in lower limb prosthesis clients. DesignDescriptive observational study using a clinician-administered functional mobility survey and timed Up and Go test to assess lower extremity function under supervision. SettingHealth Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-compliant online virtual platform. ParticipantsTwelve lower limb loss clients currently using prostheses, aged ≥19 years, not pregnant, and with no stroke, seizure disorder, or cancer. InterventionsNot applicable. Main Outcome MeasuresMain outcomes were mobility survey scores and mean timed Up and Go duration. ResultsMost participants reported significant ease of completing basic indoor ambulation and toileting tasks (66%-75%) and significant difficulty in running or prolonged ambulation activities (83%) requiring use of lower limb prosthesis. Timed Up and Go test was faster (11.0±2.9 s) than the reference range for transtibial prosthesis users and negatively associated with self-reported lower extremity functional status (r=−.70, P=.02). ConclusionsSelf-reported movement with lower limb prostheses at home and evaluation of mobility via a virtual platform is a feasible assessment modality that may reduce the frequency of therapy visits, defray some rehabilitation costs, and minimize the travel burden to distant prosthetic clinics.