Changes to transtibial amputee gait with a weighted backpack on multiple surfaces.

Background: Modern prosthetic technology and rehabilitation practices have enabled people with lower extremity amputations to participate in almost all occupations and physical activities. Carrying backpack loads can be an essential component for many of these jobs and activities; however, amputee gait with backpack loads is poorly understood. This knowledge gap must be addressed in order to further improve an individual's quality of living through changes in rehabilitation programs and prosthesis development.