Artificial Limbs for Amputees
Many people who have lost a limb through accident, illness or combat injury require a prosthetic device, commonly known as an artificial limb, to help regain mobility. Prosthetic limbs are customized to fit the individual user and can range from simple cosmetic devices for below-the-knee amputations to highly functional computers controlled arms. Recent advancements in prosthetic technologies now allow many amputees to perform activities almost as effectively as they did prior to losing their limb. Materials like carbon fiber and microprocessors have greatly improved design, comfort and functionality.

New prosthetic designs focus on making the artificial limb as light as possible while still being durable. Lighter prosthetics reduce strain on the residual limb and other joints, allowing amputees to be more active. Some innovative designs actually harness energy from the user's movements to power microprocessors in the prosthetic, eliminating the need for batteries. This has made prosthetics more reliable and natural to use. Advanced socket designs suspend the residual limb comfortably within the prosthetic, reducing risk of injuries like blisters or ligament damage over time. Overall, well fitted state-of-the-art prosthetics can restore up to 80% of normal mobility capabilities.

Orthoses for Injuries and Support

Orthoses refer to custom bracing devices used for injuries or conditions affecting bones, joints and muscles. Common applications include knee or ankle braces to support ligament tears or sprains during rehabilitation. Orthotic insoles provide arch support for conditions like plantar fasciitis. Wrist or hand splints immobilize fractures. Spinal braces can help correct scoliosis or provide Posterior support after spinal injuries or surgeries.

Accommodating Special Needs

Beyond injury rehabilitation, prosthetics and orthoses play a vital role helping people with disabilities live independently. Custom devices accommodate conditions present from birth or resulting from disease later in life. For example, spinal orthoses can manage scoliosis into adulthood. Myoelectric arm prosthetics interpret muscle signals to power highly dexterous bionic hands.

Special needs may include partial foot amputations from conditions like diabetes. Prosthetics preserve mobility while offloading pressure on other foot structures. Arthritis in hands and wrists responds well to thermoplastic splints. For those with cerebral palsy, ankle foot orthoses can reduce energy expenditure during ambulation or provide standing stability. Even simple adaptations like wheelchair seat and back cushions reduce pressure and discomfort promoting independence. Prosthetists and orthotists work closely with physical and occupational therapists to identify functional goals and fabricate assistive devices optimized for each individual.

Sports and Adaptive Equipment

Spinal orthoses protect injuries during everything from adaptive skiing to wheelchair rugby. Protective knee and elbow pads suit various impact sports. Custom swim fins and gloves compensate for partial hand or leg differences. For those with low or partial vision, audio-based sports like goalball offer community and competition on equal footing. Products to facilitate athletic pursuits combined with support networks help those with disabilities realize their potential and develop confidence through physical achievement.

The Field of Prosthetics and Orthotics

Realizing ongoing functional gains for individuals requires the expertise of certified professionals. Formal education programs at the masters or doctoral level teach biomechanics, anatomy, materials engineering and patient fitting/follow up skills. Graduates earn the title of Prosthetist, Orthotist or Prosthetist-Orthotist depending if specializing in one field. Clinical training under mentorships rounds out competencies.