AmpuEase – Transtibial Amputee Study

Regaining mobility is essential for most people with below-knee limb loss to achieve a high quality of life; yet even with skilled prosthetic care, some experience pain, skin problems, or limb-shape changes that make it difficult to maintain an ideal prosthetic socket fit.

Amputee socket design

The AmpuEase research team is working with people with transtibial limb loss to better understand these day-to-day socket challenges. Through detailed surveys, group discussions, and advanced medical imaging, this study aims to uncover how limb, socket, and mobility factors interact, so we can support improved socket design and fitting for a wide range of users.

Who can participate?

Below-knee amputees, including the general population, Paralympians, prosthetic or non-prosthetic socket wearers, seeking to improve comfort and mobility, for themselves and others, are invited to get involved.

South Australian based amputees are preferred for this study. Please contact us if you are located interstate.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Underwent transtibial amputation at least 18-months prior
  • Have a stable residual limb condition without active infections or significant oedema
  • Have ever used a prosthetic limb for daily activities
  • Are in good general health as determined by a medical professional
  • Do not suffer from claustrophobia or other medical conditions incompatible with medical imaging
  • Are willing and able to attend all study sessions
  • Are able to give written informed consent
  • Can understand written and verbal English.

What am I being invited to do?

  1. Read the Participant Information Sheet
  2. Undertake the Online survey and consent 
  3. Vital signs taken and external scan, MRI and CT scans of your residual limb at Jones radiology, SAHMRI CRIC.
  4. Group discussion session (~4 participants per session, approx. 2 hrs) and socket evaluation survey.
  5. Reflection diary – uploading photos/video of significant issues with prosthetic socket over 5 days.

An Honorarium of $150 will be presented to participants at the end of the study. Reimbursement will be available for some distance travelled and parking.

If you are interested in our AmpuEase initiative and/or do not satisfy the eligibility criteria for our study, please fill out this expression of interest form.

This study is supported by a Lifetime Support Authority Project Grant (R24020). 

Ethics has been approved by Central Adelaide Local Health Network Human Research Ethics Committee (CALHN HREC) (H-2025-21383) and The University of Adelaide HREC.

Contact

For further information, or if you would like to participate in this research, please contact Dr Ryan Quarrington.