Data from: Long jumpers with and without a transtibial amputation have different 3D center of mass and joint take-off step kinematics

Long jumpers with below the knee amputation (BKA) have achieved remarkable
performances, yet the underlying biomechanics resulting in these jump
distances are unknown. We measured 3D motion and used multi-segment
modelling to quantify and compare the center of mass (COM) and joint
kinematics of three long jumpers with BKA and seven non-amputee long
jumpers during the take-off step of the long jump. Despite having the same
jump distances, athletes with BKA, who used their affected leg for the
take-off step, had lower sagittal plane hip and knee joint range of motion
and positioned their affected leg more laterally relative to the COM
compared to non-amputee athletes. Athletes with BKA had a longer
compression phase and greater downward movement of their COM, suggesting
that their affected leg (lever) was less rigid compared to the biological
leg of non-amputees. Thus, athletes with BKA used a different kinematic
mechanism to redirect horizontal to vertical velocity compared to
non-amputee athletes. The specific movement patterns of athletes with BKA
during the take-off step were constrained by the mechanical properties of
the prosthesis. These results provide a basis for coaches and athletes to
develop training protocols that improve performance and inform the design
of future prostheses.