Understanding The Working Of A Prosthetic Leg

Prosthetic legs help people with amputation to regain their mobility and make moving around easier and convenient. Prosthetic legs are designed to mimic the functioning of a real leg and sometimes they even mimic the looks of a real leg. If you are about to get a prosthetic leg for the first time or know someone who is getting one, you may wonder how does a prosthetic leg work.

A prosthetic leg generally helps with movement like a real leg would, however, there are different types of prosthetic limbs and they work differently based on multiple factors. The amount of movement you wish, the type of your amputation, etc plays a big role in the functioning of a prosthetic leg. In this article, you will know more about the functioning of a prosthetic leg.

The Components Of A Prosthetic Leg

To understand the working mechanism of a prosthetic limb, you must understand the functioning of the different parts of the limb. Prosthetic leg technology has made astounding progress in recent years and nowadays more and more sophisticated mechanisms are developing that make mobility very convenient for everyone. Prosthetics these days are usually made of a light material like carbon fiber composite and it consists of three main composite parts. The following are the main components of a prosthetic leg.

- Pylon

This is the structural component that links the socket with the foot and is made of a solid and durable material. The pylon has to be sturdy enough as it supports the weight of the individual on the prosthetic limb without disrupting the structural integrity of the limb.

- Socket

This is the most important part of a prosthetic limb as it is the part that connects the residual limb to the prosthetic. The residual limb fits into the artificial limb using the socket and the socket usually works by a suction mechanism. A gel cushion interface or a prosthetic sock is usually worn before fitting the residual limb into the socket. This is because the residual limb changes shape and form throughout the day due to various activities and the prosthetic sock helps to manage these changes without hurting the limb. The socket needs to be of a proper fit for the prosthetic limb to work properly and for the individual to be comfortable in the prosthesis. Also, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the socket from time to time by your prosthetist.

- Suspension System

The suspension system is how the prosthetic limb remains attached to the residual limb. There are different types of suspension systems that one can choose. The vacuum suspension system is one of the commonly used suspensions in the prosthesis. In this system, a mechanical or electrical pump is used to remove the air from inside the socket so that the limb remains attached to the residual leg. It is one of the most effective methods for holding the artificial leg in Palm Beach Gardens and also to stabilize the fluids in the residual limb.

The passive suction method allows the air to be sucked out using the seal above the socket. Some prostheses may have a one-way valve attached incorporated to force the air out as well.

Some prosthetics come with an interface with a locking pin and in this suspension system, an adjustable and removable stainless steel suspension is attached to the bottom of the cushion interface. A release button disengages the pin allowing the individual to remove the prosthetic limb.

Belts and straps are also a common suspension mechanism used in prosthetic limbs. It is for those who find it difficult to bear a vacuum, or suction system, or find it difficult to locate the pin. The straps are usually attached to the shoulders or arms using which the individual controls the movement of the prosthesis. People with both arms and amputations usually use this type of prosthetic limb.

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Created on Feb 9th 2021 04:45. Viewed 213 times.

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