Clinical Research Directory

TENS for Restoring Somatotopic Sensory Feedback in Lower Limb Amputees and Improving Phantom Limb Perception

The aim of the study is to evaluate the changes induced by a course of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) treatment on the perception of phantom limb pain. In particular, we want to evaluate the changes induced by a course of TENS treatment on posture, balance, and gait. For each patient, the study will consist of a total of 20 sessions (4 mapping sessions, 3 Stimulus Intensity Discrimination sessions, 10 rehabilitation treatments, and 3 evaluation sessions). One session will be carried out each day. Each session will last 60 minutes, except for the evaluation sessions, which are expected to last approximately 90 minutes. For the patient, the study ends with the last evaluation, voluntary withdrawal from the study, or the patient's death.

Microenvironment in Patients Undergoing Non-traumatic Amputation

The microenvironment of the amputation stump in patients undergoing non-traumatic transfemoral amputation will be investigated with a combination of microdialysis and tissue sampling.

Effects of Microprocessor-controlled Prosthetic Knees on Fall-related Health Outcomes in Limited Community Ambulators

The goal of this study is to find out if using microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees (MPKs), prosthetic knees with a built-in computer, improves health outcomes related to falls in adults who use above-knee prostheses. The main questions are: * Do individuals with MPKs have fewer fall-related health issues compared to those with non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees (nMPKs)? * Do individuals with MPKs have increased mobility, faster walking speed, and improved quality of life compared to those with nMPKs? Participants who have recently received an nMPK as part of their regular care can join the study. Those randomized to the control group will keep using their nMPK, while those randomized to the intervention group will receive a stance-and-swing MPK or a stance-only MPK.

Clinical Application Observation on the Evaluation of Phantom Limb Pain With the Suralis System

This study tests whether a vibration-based feedback device (Suralis) can reduce phantom limb pain in people with lower-leg amputations over 3 weeks. Participants wear the device daily and report pain levels, walking ability, and quality of life - with no known risks, as it's a CE-certified medical device. If pain improves, the study team will help participants apply for insurance coverage to keep using the system long-term. The goal is to offer a simple, non-drug option that may help ease chronic pain and improve daily function for amputees. Participation is voluntary and can be stopped anytime without affecting medical care.

Study on a Prosthetic Foot With Adjustable Heel Height

Most prosthetic feet have a fixed heel height, which requires users to always wear shoes with the same heel height. A fixed heel height is a significant constraint, whereas the ability to choose one's clothing freely is an important aspect of coping with a physical disability. The Taleo Adjust is a prosthetic foot with a hydraulic ankle that allows the user to adjust the heel height from 0 to 7 cm, depending on the type of shoe worn. This study aims to evaluate the impact of an adjustable-heel-height foot on physical appearance and participation.