The Process for Putting on Prosthetic Limbs

Prosthetic limbs allow people whose limbs have been amputated to walk and use their arms and hands. The process for putting on the different types of prostheses varies. Generally, a prosthetic sock or liner is put over the remainder of limb and then the component is attached to the body by suspension mechanisms.

Interface

• The interface is the part of the prosthetic limb that attaches to the remaining portion of the arm or leg. It consists of a socket with structural supports that are fitted to the person wearing the prosthesis. A liner or prosthetic sock is worn between the skin and the interface to prevent painful chafing and absorb shock. Three types of suspension systems might be found in the interface, all of which help the limb stay in place. Suction valves use air to create a seal that keeps the limb in place, while prosthesis with locking pins press tightly against the limb. Additionally, harnesses are used by people who cannot tolerate the pins and seals.

Component

• The component refers to the body and working parts of the prosthetic limb. The setup and type of the component varies based on the manufacturers of the prosthesis and where the prosthesis goes on the body. Some components feature microprocessors that respond to the muscle contraction of the remainder of the limb, which makes the features of the component move. Bionic limbs are connected to the remainder of the limb and respond to neurological impulses there, creating movement. The process for putting on a prosthetic limb varies based on the movement style of the component.

Cover

• Covers are optional parts of prosthetic limbs that help to make the limb look more lifelike, while protecting the sensitive moving components from damage. Covers are generally made of foam and plastic and are designed to mimic the skin tone and body type of the person who is wearing the prosthesis. Some people prefer to omit covers and leave the components of the prosthetic limb exposed. Regardless of the cover, the process of putting on a prosthetic limb remains the same.

Process

• First, the protective liner or prosthetic sock is put onto the remainder of the limb. If the prosthesis is attached by a pin, there is usually a hole in the liner to accommodate the pin and the pin mechanism is put onto the remainder of the limb. For pin prostheses, the pin is then inserted into the component of the limb until it clicks into place. With suction valve prosthesis, the liner is composed of neoprene so that when the component is placed onto the remainder of the limb a suction valve is created. Harness prostheses are put onto the protective liner and then strapped over a shoulder or other body parts to secure it.