The aerodynamic impact of a range of prostheses designs when cycling with a trans-tibial amputation

Previous studies have proposed that an aerodynamically optimised prosthetic limb could provide performance enhancement for competitive paracyclists. Four different designs of prosthetic limbs were assessed for their impact upon the aerodynamic drag of an elite cyclist with a lower-limb amputation. The pylon area acted as the controlled location for the differences in design between the test prostheses. A validated field test method was used to derive the participant’s total aerodynamic drag when using the prostheses designs. The field test method produced a repeatable experimental process and demonstrated that small changes in form made to the pylon region resulted in measurable differences to the participant’s cycling performance. In addition, statistical significance was obtained between a baseline design and the prostheses prototype with the greatest aspect ratio (p=<0.05). The magnitude of improvements recorded in this study could potentially influence a rider’s finishing time at international sporting events like the Paralympic Games