Driving Pedal Reaction Times After Right Transtibial Amputations

Meikle B, Devlin M, Pauley T. Driving pedal reaction times after right transtibial amputations.ObjectivesTo determine if right transtibial amputees have the potential to safely operate the foot pedals of a vehicle with their prosthetic foot, and to determine which of 4 driving techniques is associated with the fastest reaction times.DesignRepeated measures.SettingOutpatient amputee clinic.ParticipantsTen subjects with right-sided, transtibial amputations.InterventionBrake pedal response times were measured using 4 different driving techniques: right-sided accelerator with (1) prosthesis operating both the accelerator and brake pedals, (2) prosthesis operating the accelerator and left foot operating the brake, (3) left foot operating both the accelerator and brake, and (4) left-sided accelerator with the left foot operating both the accelerator and brake.Main Outcome MeasuresReaction time, movement time, total response time, and pedal configuration preference.ResultsTotal response times were slowest using a 2-footed driving technique (P<.001). Total response times were comparable using a left-sided accelerator versus the prosthesis. Using the left foot to operate both the accelerator and brake in a conventional right-footed accelerator design led to the fastest reaction (P<.001) and total response times (P<.01), although it is unclear if this is a realistic driving technique for all amputees.ConclusionsOur results suggest that right transtibial amputees should be instructed not to drive with a 2-footed technique, and that they have similar pedal response times using their prosthesis when compared with a left-sided accelerator.