Prostheses

The design and type of prosthesis is determined based on the individual, the type and level of amputation, the cause of amputation, the residual limb length, shape, and condition, as well as the individual’s diagnosis, prognosis, activity levels and goals (Nelson et al., 2006).

The basic components of a prosthesis include (Murphy, 2013; Spires, Kelly & Davis, 2013):

A socket, which contains the residual limb
A form of suspension to connect the socket to the residual limb
Prosthetic joints, including a foot, knee and hip as required
Prosthetic components, which connect the socket and the joints

Components of a prosthetic leg (Össur South-Africa, 2017)

Many types of prosthetic feet exist and may consist of foam, rubber or wood cores, or carbon fibre or plastic structures with a foot shell (Spires, Kelly & Davis, 2013). Different feet are chosen for the prosthesis based on the activity levels and requirements of the amputee (Spires, Kelly & Davis, 2013).

References:

Nelson, V. S., Flood, K. M., Bryant, P. R., Huang, M. E., Pasquina, P. F., & Roberts, T. L. (2006). Limb deficiency and prosthetic management. 1. Decision making in prosthetic prescription and management. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 87(3), 3-9. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2005.11.022

Murphy, D. (2013). Fundamentals of Amputation Care and Prosthetics. New York: Demos Medical Publishing.

Össur South-Africa (2017). Components of a prosthetic leg. Retrieved from: https://www.ossur.co.za/prosthetic-solutions/information-for-amputees/about-prosthetic-legs/components-of-a-prosthetic-leg

Spires, M. C., Kelly, B., & Davis, A. (2013). Prosthetic restoration and rehabilitation of the upper and lower extremity. New York: Demos Medical Publishing

Transtibial Sockets

Transfemoral Sockets

Transtibial Suspension

Transfemoral Suspension

Transfemoral Knees

Feet

Socket Interfaces

The socket interface is the material between the socket and residual limb (Murphy, 2013). Gel or silicone liners are used as an interface to give protection and provide comfort to the residual limb (Murphy, 2013). Pealite liner is another form of interface, made from a foam-like material and is designed to fit within the socket and its contours to fit the residual limb (Murphy, 2013).