What Are The Parts of a Prosthetic Leg?

06 May.,2024

 

What Are The Parts of a Prosthetic Leg?

If you are considering using a prosthetic leg, or you have already been prescribed a prosthetic leg, you probably have a lot of questions about how a prosthetic leg works! Read on to learn more about the different parts that make up a prosthetic leg and how they work together. 

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Prosthesis and prosthetic leg 

The first term to become familiar with is  “prosthesis”. A prosthesis (plural: prostheses) is an artificial device that replaces a body part lost through trauma, disease or a congenital condition. The components of a prosthesis depend on the body part it replaces. If the prosthesis replaces a leg, for example, you can call it a prosthetic leg. 

Socket 

The socket connects your residual limb to your prosthetic leg and is the foundation of the prosthetic leg. A proper fit is essential to ensure that you can function comfortably and well.  

Since no two residual limbs are the same, the socket is custom-designed and manufactured to suit the shape of your residual limb and to accommodate for individual shape and skin patterns. 

Liner 

The liner serves as a protective barrier between your skin and the socket. Because the socket and suspension are fundamental to the effective functioning of a prosthetic leg, it is extremely important to select the right liner. 

There are three main ways to attach a liner to your socket: 

  • Locking liner: a locking pin at the end furthest from the residual limb  
  • Cushion liner: an extra layer applied over the liner and socket  
  • Seal-in liner a vacuum with a seal  

Prosthetic knee 

Depending on the location of the amputation, your prosthetic leg may or may not feature a knee. 

A prosthetic knee mimics the function of a biological knee by providing safety, symmetry and smooth movement when walking. It also provides stability when standing and a range of motion that makes sitting and kneeling possible.  

The knee is one of the most complicated joints in the human body, so designing a prosthesis that functions like a biological knee can be challenging. If the design forces the user to walk in an unnatural way, they may experience back and hip pain . Or if the knee doesn’t suit the user’s physical requirements, it may cause them to fall. Prosthetic knees can be divided into mechanical or bionic (computerized) knees. 

Be sure to communicate with your prosthetist to ensure you are getting the comfort and functionality from your prosthetic knee to meet your mobility needs. 

Prosthetic foot 

A prosthetic foot imitates the function of a biological foot by providing a safe platform, handling differences in terrain and allowing the individual to walk in a natural, symmetrical way. The foot is the main prosthetic component responsible for absorbing the shock generated by impact on the ground. Prosthetic feet are available in a wide range to reflect your lifestyle and individual requirements.  

Adapters 

An adapter is any prosthetic component that links the main components, such as the liner, knee and foot together. Adapters can vary from components such as a simple tube (which is called a pylon) to an expulsion valve in a vacuum system. 

Cosmesis 

A cosmesis is a lifelike covering made from a material such as silicone or PVC. Its purpose is to mimic the appearance of a biological limb, and may be complete with freckles, veins, hair or even tattoos. A cosmesis can also protect the prosthetic components from the elements. 

Some types of cosmeses are ready-made, but for a truly realistic appearance a cosmesis must be custom designed and manufactured by a prosthetist who specializes in this aspect of prosthetics.  

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The use of a cosmesis is a personal choice. You will get to weigh the benefits of appearance of a cosmesis against the extra costs and potential impacts on functionality when deciding whether to wear one or not. 

Specialized Components 

Prosthetic technology has come a long way toward helping people who have had an amputation enjoy greater mobility. Some of the most advanced prosthetics, like Bionic prosthetics, have on-board microprocessor computers and artificial intelligence (AI) that automatically adjust to changes in terrain, and adapts real-time to your walking speed and style. 

While the same prosthesis can be used for a range of activities, such as hiking, jogging, and showering, other activities, such as sprinting, long-distance running and swimming, require a specialized prosthesis. If you plan to go jogging, running or sprinting regularly, it’s better to use components made specifically for that, such as the Cheetah blade. 

One recent innovation from Össur is a unique crossover foot prosthesis inspired by the original Cheetah design. Although primarily designed for everyday use, the Cheetah Xplore allows the user to engage in various sports and activities without changing the prosthesis.  

By openly discussing your ambitions and lifestyle requirements with your prosthetist while staying informed about new technology, you can be sure that you are getting the benefits of the latest technology. 

We hope these descriptions are a helpful start to understanding this new part of your daily life. Remember to always ask the specialists you are working with about your new prosthetic leg and how it works. It is a great way to empower yourself as you move into your new life with a prosthetic leg.

Lower Limb Prosthesis 101: Knowledge is Power

When Should You Make an Appointment to See the Prosthetist?

  • If it is painful, you should see your prosthetist as soon as possible.
  • If it is uncomfortable and persists, no matter what sock combinations you use, you should consider seeing your prosthetist for an adjustment.

What Can Cause Your Residual Limb to Become Swollen?

There are many reasons why your amputated limb may be swelling. One of the major causes of swelling in your residual limb is taking in too much salt. A simple change in your diet can help here. If needed, contact a dietician to help you create a meal plan that is right for you.

Another common reason for swelling to occur is not wearing a shrinker sock at night. A shrinker helps make sure your residual limb stays a nice consistent shape and size.

A more serious reason swelling could occur is an infection. If you get a cut or your incision opens up and becomes infected, swelling will be apparent.

There are also certain medical conditions like heart or kidney disease, impaired circulation, and uncontrolled diabetes that could be a cause of the swelling. Make an appointment with your doctor if your swelling does not go down. 

What Does it Feel Like When Wearing Too Many Ply Socks?

  • Residual limb throbs, feels constricted and chocked
  • Uncomfortable pressure
  • End of limb becomes weepy (moist) and red and/or purple in color.
  • Feeling that the prosthesis is too tall

What Happens When You Do Not Wear Enough Ply Socks?

When you do not wear enough ply socks, the prosthetic may move around too much. This can cause the foot to turn in or out and could cause a fall. You may also feel tightness at the bottom from dropping too deep into the socket.

Others have expressed the feeling of the prosthesis being too short and, in some instances, skin breakdown occurs at the bottom of the residual limb from friction and rubbing.

When is it Time to Replace Your Prosthesis?

Below is a list of different scenarios and reasons that may indicate the need to replace your prosthesis. 

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  • Your weight is no longer within the range of safety of the components.
  • The components are no longer working to the specifications of the manufacturer.
  • Your activity level is no longer compatible with the components used, such that they are increasing the individual’s net energy cost rather than decreasing it.
  • A specific component or module needs replacing, but the replacement is not compatible with the rest of the existing components.
  • So many changes or alterations have been made to materials that their structural integrity has been compromised.
  • It is impossible to increase or decrease the size of the socket and or frame without rebuilding the whole prosthesis.