The Impact of Upper Limb Loss on Center of Mass during Walking, Jogging, and Running

Abstract COM of mass (COM) is responsible for linear and angular movement of the human body, and individuals that experience upper limb loss (ULL) can encounter a disruption in COM during human locomotion; causing inefficient movement. The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in COM during three different modes of locomotion (walking, jogging, and running) under three different conditions (both arms free, one arm bound, and both arms bound). Six division one cross country athletes volunteered for the study (M=3, F=3, average age=19+, SD=3.5) and performed two trials of 20 m of all three modes of locomotion on an indoor track under three different conditions. Data was collected for COM via motion capture system. The researchers found that individuals with simulated ULL experienced a shift in COM. The COM shifts to assist in balancing the participant throughout the different conditions. Researchers found that by understanding changes in COM, health care practitioners and coaches who work with athletes that obtain disabilities could better apply necessary rehabilitation practices. Key words: Center of Mass (COM), upper limb loss (ULL