Gait asymmetry is associated with performance-based physical function among adults with lower-limb amputation.
Mayank Seth, Peter C Coyle, Ryan T Pohlig and 4 others
PMID 34657569WHAT IT FOUND
Among 38 adults with lower-limb amputation, greater gait asymmetry was associated with poorer physical function.
This link was strongest when walking fast. Clinicians should monitor asymmetry as a potential contributor to reduced mobility and endurance.
Key findings
01Greater asymmetry in step length and stance time was significantly associated with worse performance on the Timed Up and Go, 10-Meter Walk Test, and 6-Minute Walk Test.
02Gait asymmetry measured at fast walking speed explained a larger portion of the variance in physical function outcomes than asymmetry measured at self-selected speed.
03The association between gait asymmetry and physical function was observed in both transtibial and transfemoral amputees, with no significant interaction between amputation level and asymmetry.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The study is cross-sectional, so it cannot prove that gait asymmetry causes poor physical function, only that they are associated. The sample size was small (n=38), limiting the generalizability of the findings. Participants were limited to those with low physical activity levels, so results may not apply to more active individuals. The study only included adults at least one year post-amputation, excluding those in early rehabilitation. Gait asymmetry was measured using absolute symmetry indices, which does not allow for analysis of which limb (residual or sound) contributed more to the asymmetry.
Declared interests
The authors report no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume that correcting gait asymmetry will automatically improve physical function. This study shows an association, not causation, and the specific strategies to effectively reduce asymmetry in this population have not been validated.