Abstract: Objective To investigate the relationship between energy storage and clinical practicability of prosthetic feet.Methods Six different prosthetic feet were selected and tested the ratio between released energy and absorbed energy of these feet through a specially-designed equipment. Then, the differences on total cycles of heartbeat of the amputee were tested when he wore the six feet separately to walk and run.Results The total cycles of heartbeat of the amputee with feet of higher energy storage were apparently lower during running, but might be equal or even a little higher during walking.Conclusion The ability of energy-saving of a foot is more important than the ability of energy-storing.

Key words: prosthetic foot, energy storage, practicability, relationship