Evaluation of Socket Design by Measurement of Interfacial Socket Pressure for Below Elbow Amputees

Abstract

Socket design is one of the most important factor for effective utilization of the upper limb prosthesis. Socket encircles the residual stump of amputees and interface pressure between prosthetic socket and residual stump act as direct indicator of the good socket design which is directly linked with comfort and satisfaction of the patients. Socket should be fabricated individually to exactly match with user’ morphology to appropriately distribute pressure throughout whole stump. The objective of this study was to evaluate the socket design of below elbow amputees by monitoring pressure at different anatomical landmarks that prosthetist gives special consideration during fabrication of socket. A total of 6 trans-radial amputees wearing body powered prosthesis with voluntary opening device were included in this study.