In evaluating prosthetic foot mechanics, what muscular group does the resistance of the prosthetic keel resemble during eccentric contraction?

The resistance provided by the prosthetic keel primarily mimics the function of the ankle plantar flexors during eccentric contraction. When an individual walks or runs, the ankle plantar flexors, such as the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, play a crucial role in controlling the forward motion of the body and stabilizing the ankle joint.

During gait, as the heel strikes the ground, the prosthetic keel acts to resist excessive dorsiflexion, similar to how the ankle plantar flexors would work eccentrically to control the descent of the body's center of mass over the foot. This controlled resistance helps to prevent the ankle from collapsing too far forward, allowing for a smoother transition into the stance phase.

Additionally, the design of the keel in a prosthetic foot aims to replicate the natural biomechanics of the foot and ankle, particularly during activities like walking. By providing resistance during loading, it helps to mimic the way the plantar flexors would decelerate the forward motion and stabilize the individual, facilitating a more natural gait pattern. This makes the imitation of plantar flexor function essential for effective prosthetic design and use.