Neuromechanics of Very Severe Injury

The Iraq and Afghanistan conflict resulted in 373 UK Service personnel requiring some form of limb amputation, of which 65% have since been discharged due to subsequent musculoskeletal complications. The cost of medical support for a single amputee for an average remaining lifespan of 40 years is estimated at between 0.9 and 1.2 million pounds per person, and potential total cost for this group of £288 million.

This cost can potentially be reduced by promoting physically and occupationally active lifestyles utilising an optimal movement pattern to prevent musculoskeletal injury and falls, which can add to medical care costs. There is little research identifying the reasons for poor movement in lower limb amputees, and this is required to optimise exercise rehabilitation strategy prescription. The aim of this programme of research is to identify the neuromuscular characteristics of military lower limb amputees during walking and running tasks using biomechanical analysis techniques.