Individuals with lower limb amputations often struggle with maintaining postural control, especially when standing still. However, researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a robotic prosthetic ankle that can help improve stability for lower limb amputees. The ankle uses electromyographic sensors to detect muscle intentions in the residual limb, assisting with postural control.
The system has been shown to assist with postural control, a complex and unconscious process that muscles in our legs undergo to maintain balance and stability even while standing still. The robotic ankle is designed to monitor muscle activity in the residual limb and make the necessary adjustments to help the wearer maintain balance and stability.
Helen Huang, one of the developers of the technology, explains that postural control is a surprisingly complicated process. The robotic prosthetic ankle, controlled using electromyographic (EMG) signals, is effective at allowing users to achieve natural stability. Researchers tested the device with five volunteers who had undergone below-knee amputations, demonstrating that the EMG-controlled robotic ankle can help users maintain stability in a way that mimics their instinctive response.
This innovative technology has the potential to greatly improve the quality of life for lower limb amputees by enhancing postural control and restoring stability.
Original study published in the journal Science Robotics.
Source: North Carolina State University
