The Influence of Prosthetic Socket Trimline Height on Standing Balance in Individuals with Transfemoral Amputation

This study investigated whether prosthetic socket trimline height influences standing balance in individuals with transfemoral amputation (TFA). Using quiet standing trials on dual force plates, we compared postural stability between users of ischial containment (IC) and subischial (SI) sockets. Across balance measures, SI users showed a trend toward greater sway than IC users, suggesting that reduced proximal support may subtly impact balance control and reliance on hip-driven strategies. Although preliminary, these findings indicate that socket trimline height may play a meaningful role in postural stability and should be considered during clinical decision-making, particularly for patients with existing balance impairments. Further research is needed to determine whether modifying trimline height can improve stability or reduce fall risk in this population.