Blood Pressure Regulation in Persons with a Transfemoral Amputation: Effects of Wearing a Prosthesis

Abstract

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of wearing a transfemoral prosthesis (FP) on blood pressure regulation in response to postural change. METHODS We enrolled seven persons with a transfemoral amputation who underwent a head-up tilt test while wearing an FP (PROS test) and without wearing an FP (control [CON] test). Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate variability, and muscle blood flow using near-infrared spectroscopy were measured continuously. RESULTS In the CON (no FP) test, SBP decreased from supine to standing positions in all participants (P = 0.001). In contrast, in the PROS (wearing an FP) test, SBP increased (P = 0.001) during the postural change. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that a transfemoral prosthesis increases peripheral vascular resistance in the lower limbs and stimulates the baroreflex, helping to stabilize the circulatory dynamics upon postural change. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Because circulatory dynamics may be hampered in persons with a transfemoral amputation, wearing a prosthesis not only assists in ambulation but can also play a significant role in blood pressure regulation during activities of daily living.