The Timed Up and Go and Two-Minute Walk Test: Exploration of a method for establishing normative values for established lower limb prosthetic users

Abstract

The Timed Up and Go (TUG) and Two-Minute Walk Test (2MWT) are clinically appropriate mobility measures in amputee rehabilitation. Despite the tests being routinely performed, reference values for amputees have yet to be established. This study aimed to establish and trial a method for estimating normative values of the TUG and 2MWT for transtibial and transfemoral amputees. Thirty-seven established prosthetic users aged 40–69 years (28 unilateral transtibial amputees and nine unilateral transfemoral) performed two recorded trials of the TUG and 2MWT. Participant characteristics were collected using the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scale. Preliminary normative data for the TUG and 2MWT were produced for three age cohorts and the two amputee subpopulations. Poorer mobility performance with transfemoral amputation was evident for both mobility measures. Multivariate analysis displayed relationships between age, length of time with a prosthesis and performance of both tests. In conclusion, normative values for the TUG and 2MWT for transtibial and transfemoral amputees may be calculated. Preliminary results indicate that higher levels of amputation relate to poorer performance on both the TUG and 2MWT. Studies with larger samples are required to further develop these values for use in rehabilitation.

Keywords:

• Lower limb amputees
• normative values
• outcome measures

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Merridee Rees for her assistance with the TAPES, staff of the Rankin Park Rehabilitation Unit for their support, and participants who contributed their time to take part in this project.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The study received no external funding.