From left, Richey and Zucker-Levin are pictured with a key focus of their research: the MPF component and a completed transtibial prosthesis incorporating the MPF. Photograph courtesy of UTHSC.
Two professors with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) have been awarded a $1.5 million grant to study the effectiveness of the microprocessor-controlled prosthetic foot (MPF) for use with military veterans with amputations who have limited mobility. The grant from the U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity will allow Audrey Zucker-Levin, PhD, PT, MBA, GCS Emeritus, a professor with the Department of Physical Therapy in the College of Health Professions, and Phyllis Richey, PhD, MS, BSEd, an associate professor with the Departments of Preventive Medicine, Physical Therapy, and Pediatrics in the Colleges of Health Professions and Medicine, to direct the Veteran Amputees Leading prOsthetic Research (VALOR) study at UTHSC. The aim of the study is to determine if an MPF will provide a preferable alternative to the most commonly prescribed prosthesis for the typical veteran with a transtibial amputation.
The project is titled, “The Effect of a Microprocessor Prosthetic Foot on Function and Quality of Life in Transtibial Amputees Who Are Limited Community Ambulators.” It will be funded over three years to determine if exchanging a traditionally prescribed prosthetic foot with an MPF will improve walking efficiency, safety, and quality of life.
“We are very excited about our new [U.S.] Department of Defense award and the cross-college collaboration opportunity it presents to address an important disparity among veteran below-knee amputees,” Richey said.
Designed to raise the toe when a step is taken, the MPF theoretically should make walking easier and safer and reduce the risk of falling. However, it is currently not prescribed for the typical person with a transtibial amputation, who is an older person with complications from vascular disease and diabetes, according to the UTHSC press release. Guidelines for prescribing the MPF restrict the device to higher-functioning individuals with amputations.
“Due to financial limitations, newer prosthetic components are traditionally provided to the more able-bodied amputee,” said Zucker-Levin. “I am excited to see if providing a high-tech foot will improve function in the typical amputee.”
Editor’s note: This story was adapted from materials provided by UTHSC.