special subjects
Overview of Limb Prosthetics
Goals
Goals range from simple mobility to being able to do high-impact activities, such as running and jumping. The prosthesis' components are customized to help people achieve their different goals. Advances in cushioning materials, prosthetic socket design, and foot, ankle, knee, hand, wrist, and elbow component technology have significantly improved comfort and function. When Prosthesis Fitting , the prosthetist works to make sure that the amputee is comfortable, stable while standing and walking, and able to or achieve individual goals. Highly motivated, otherwise healthy people with a prosthesis can accomplish many extraordinary feats (for example, go skydiving, climb mountains, complete triathlons, fully participate in sports, or return to demanding jobs or to active duty in the military). Whether a prosthesis is used only for basic mobility or for more demanding activities, it can provide profound psychologic benefits and improve quality of life. Successful prosthesis usedepends on the following: The person's other medical conditions The person's physical and cognitive capabilities The characteristics of the amputation stump How well the prosthesis socket fits and connects to the body Prosthesis fitting is a specialized skill. Also it can be hard for people to make the physical and mental adjustments necessary to function with the prosthesis. Thus, the whole process of selecting and adjusting components and assessing overall prosthesis function is challenging and takes significant time. Not all patients are candidates for all types of prosthesis. 