Under Pressure: Prosthesis Wear Affects Resting Vital Signs

Saturday, February 21, 2026

10:00 AM - 10:15 AM CDT

Room: Volunteer Ballroom B

Presenter(s)

Samantha J. Stauffer, CPO, PhD, FAAOP

Postdoctoral Researcher / Director of Research
University of Delaware, Limb Loss Studies Lab / Independence Prosthetics-Orthotics
University of Delaware
Newark, Delaware, United States

After lower-limb amputation, the circulatory system adapts, leading to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Limb compression due to a prosthesis may lead to a shift in circulation via enhancement of venous return. This study sought to determine if prosthesis wear status affects resting vital signs.

Learning Objectives:

Evaluate heart rate and blood pressure according to American Heart Association guidelines.
Discuss physiologic mechanisms driving change in vital signs with prosthesis wear status.
Interpret and discuss abnormal vital signs with patients.