Every two years, the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) hosts its flagship event, the ISPO World Congress, bringing together a global network of professionals dedicated to advancing mobility and rehabilitation care. This interdisciplinary gathering includes clinicians, researchers, engineers, educators, and policymakers working in prosthetics, orthotics, assistive technologies, and comprehensive rehabilitation services.

In June 2025, Dr Mahmoud Alfatafta the honor of participating in this prestigious event held in Sweden, where he presented a research titled "Gait Stability and Balance Strategies of Prosthetic Users in Response to Perturbations." The study, conducted in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Strathclyde and the University of Jordan, focused on evaluating how transtibial prosthetic users respond to sudden gait disturbances. Using the Motek CAREN system, we analyzed biomechanical adaptations, particularly Margins of Stability (MoS) and step characteristics, to better understand fall recovery strategies.

Our findings highlighted that deceleration perturbations posed a greater challenge than accelerations, and that prosthetic users tended to adopt wider and faster steps to maintain balance. The study underscores the importance of targeted training during rehabilitation to enhance postural control and fall prevention among lower limb amputees.

Presenting this work at ISPO allowed us to engage with leading experts, explore the latest innovations in device design and clinical approaches, and contribute to the global dialogue on improving outcomes for prosthetic users. It was an invaluable experience that further reinforced the role of evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration in shaping the future of prosthetic and orthotic care.