Ambulating With Bilateral Lower Extremity Prosthetic Limbs
Presented by Alicia White
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Rehabilitation following bilateral lower extremity limb loss presents unique clinical challenges that require a highly individualized and multidisciplinary approach. This course equips healthcare providers with the knowledge and practical strategies to evaluate, plan, and implement treatment for individuals learning to ambulate with bilateral prosthetic limbs. From comprehensive assessment techniques to prosthetic selection and gait training progression, clinicians will learn how to support patients throughout the continuum of care—from early evaluation to functional community mobility. Emphasis is placed on understanding prosthetic components, transfer techniques, and progressive gait training using tools such as stubbies and pediatric walkers. This course is designed for providers working in inpatient, outpatient, and community rehabilitation settings.
Learning Objectives
- Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of individuals with bilateral lower extremity limb absence to identify occupational performance needs and contextual factors
- Formulate an individualized treatment plan for persons with bilateral lower extremity limb absence, integrating clinical reasoning and person-centered goals
- Determine prosthetic limb options that align with the functional goals and participation needs of individuals with bilateral lower extremity limb absence
- Enhance functional performance and participation outcomes for individuals with bilateral lower extremity limb absence through targeted intervention strategies
Meet your instructor
Alicia White
Dr. Alicia White graduated from Baldwin Wallace University in 2004 with a degree in athletic training. She continued her studies at the University of Miami, where she earned a doctorate in physical therapy in 2007. Dr. White worked at the Center for the Intrepid in San Antonio, Texas, for 10 years, treating high-level…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Evaluating the Patient With Bilateral Lower Extremity Limb Amputations
This chapter guides clinicians through the evaluation process for patients with bilateral limb loss, including medical history, postoperative considerations, and functional mobility assessments. It emphasizes adaptations in manual muscle testing, range-of-motion measurement, and the use of standardized outcome tools to inform goal setting and treatment planning from day 1. Providers will gain practical tips for collaborating with the medical team and setting achievable, patient-centered goals.
2. Understanding Prosthetic Options for Patients With Bilateral Lower Extremity Amputations
Clinicians will learn to differentiate between various prosthetic socket and suspension types, including the use of stubbies and progression to articulating knees. The chapter outlines how prosthetic configurations influence mobility and guides providers on selecting and fitting appropriate assistive devices. Practical considerations for both adult and pediatric populations are addressed, including custom equipment modifications.
3. Prosthetic Gait Training and Transfer Training for Patients With Bilateral Lower Extremity Amputations
This chapter delivers a comprehensive overview of gait and transfer training for patients using bilateral prosthetic limbs. It includes techniques for donning and doffing, progressing from parallel bars to community ambulation, and adapting to terrain changes and stairs. Providers will also learn safe and functional strategies for sit-to-stand transfers, car transfers, and floor recovery, ensuring confidence and independence across various settings.
More courses in this series
Running With a Prosthesis
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Ambulating With Bilateral Lower Extremity Prosthetic Limbs
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