Oxygen Consumption and Speed Performance of a Runner with Amputation Wearing an Elevated Vacuum Running Prosthesis

Abstract

Introduction Persons with lower-limb differences are increasingly seeking out a means to participate in sport and running activities. Suspension of the running-specific prosthesis (RSP) during high-intensity running is crucial for safety and optimal running performance. The vacuum-assisted socket system (VASS) provides enhanced proprioception and residual limb volume stability during walking; however, utilization of the VASS in an individual fit with an RSP has yet to be explored in case or empirical studies. We report outcomes of a recreational running transtibial prosthesis user wearing a novel VASS-RSP. Methods A 33-year-old man with transtibial amputation was provided an RSP with a VASS and performed outcome measures while wearing the VASS-RSP and non-VASS-RSP. He performed a series of straight and counterclockwise (CCW) curve track 40-m runs while speed gates recorded split and total time. The patient also performed a 10-minute treadmill run oxygen consumption was determined, and Socket Comfort Scores (SCS) were recorded. Results No significant differences in track running trials were observed; straight track running speeds were similar VASS (5.37 ± 0.06 m/s) and non-VASS-RSP (5.37 ± 0.16 m/s), [t(1) = 0.320, P = 0.979]. Curve track speeds improved while wearing the VASSRSP (4.72 ± 0.09 m/s) compared with the non-VASS-RSP (4.66 ± 0.03 m/s) [t(2) = 0.846, P = 0.487]. Speeds were significantly faster during straight track running (5.37 ± 0.08 m/s) than during curve track running (4.70 ± 0.07 m/s) when both RSP configurations were combined [t(4) = 15.8, P = 0.001]. Net oxygen consumption reduced while wearing VASS-RSP (24.6 mL/kg per minute) compared with non-VASS-RSP (29.2 mL/kg per minute). Socket comfort during outcome measures improved 33% while wearing the VASS-RSP. Conclusions The patient preferred using the VASS-RSP while performing running exercises, and some outcome measures comparing the two suction suspension systems support the patient values. The novel VASS system should be further tested to determine potential utility for running exercise and sport interventions for persons with amputation.