Developing physical activity through exercise for lower limb amputees
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The development and evaluation of an exercise programme to encourage physical activity in lower limb amputees.
IRAS ID
232221
Contact name
Siobhan Strike
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Roehampton
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 3 months, 30 days
Research summary
Current rehabilitation protocols for people with a lower limb amputation (PLLA) focus on returning to activities of daily living and walking. PLLA demonstrate altered movement patterns and reduced physical activity (PA) which can result in a long-term increased risk of falling, pain and joint damage. Current best practice involves modifying exercise programme (EP) created for the general population. There is little evidence that any widely available EP’s are relevant or effective for PLLA population’s needs nor that they encourage PA, important to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.
The purpose of this research is to develop and evaluate a needs-specific EP for PLLA. Development will use training principals developed for people with chronic diseases and disabilities, including supporting literature to enable autonomy in self-directed home EP. The effectiveness of the EP will be assessed by comparing the health (including perceived pain), falls (number of trips, stumbles and falls), fitness and PA levels (HFFPA) of the participants. All outcome measures will be recorded before the start of (pre), during the last week of (post), and three months after (3+) the intervention.
The research will occur in two phases. Phase one develops the EP in a small group, researching the required exercise intensity, prompts to ensure correct execution and progressive weekly developments to ensure training effect. Phase two assesses, through field tests, the effectiveness of phase one EP to evoke change in HFFPA.
PLLA passed fit to exercise by Specialist Mobility Centre (SMC) team will be recruited to the research that will occur at their SMC. Current HFFPA will be assessed through established tests (blood pressure, physical tests and PA questionnaire). Participants complete a twelve-week exercise intervention at SMC and home. Onsite group EP will allow overload and progression by gradually increasing the intensity, volume and frequency of exercise, minimising injury risk. Participants are not remunerated.REC name
London - Surrey Borders Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0602
Date of REC Opinion
3 May 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion