Types of Prosthetics

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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The type of shoe you wear each morning depends on several factors: the weather, your activities that day, and even your clothing choice.

While a person who has experienced limb loss is not able to change out their prosthetic limb daily, these limbs are designed and built based on the goals of the patient. Much like a favorite pair of shoes, an artificial limb must be able to serve many purposes.

Not all prostheses are limb-based. You may have noticed individuals with glass eyes.

An artificial body part used for bodily appearance and not for function is called a cosmesis. This means they are worn for physical appearance and do not have effective function.

In contrast, prostheses, such as artificial legs, are designed for utility, not appearance.

Most prosthetics are designed to address limb loss. The design of these artificial limbs depends on the extent of the injury and required amputation. There are two types of prosthetic legs: above-the-knee and below-the-knee.

Above-the-knee prosthetics attach to part of the thigh and include a knee joint for movement. That joint allows for the natural movement of the leg during walking.

Below-the-knee prosthetics attach below the knee and have a fixed foot attachment.

These artificial legs are used for movement and are designed to improve mobility instead of improve physical appearance. Today, there are even specially designed prosthetic legs made to absorb shock and thrust a runner forward, allowing athletes to compete in different sports.

Artificial arms are divided based on the placement of the elbow. Above-elbow prosthetics attach to the upper arm or shoulder and can include a moveable elbow.

Below-elbow prosthetics provide a forearm and some hand attachment. There are various hand designs based on the requirements of the patients. Some are designed to grasp, while others provide a hook.

Each of these prostheses helps the patient regain life activities. However, they can be heavy and hard to maneuver. Current designs and materials focus on improving function and quality, using lighter materials like carbon fiber or plastic.

Prosthetics must be durable because they are used every day! Many have foam padding for comfort at the attachment point that reduces stress and pressure on the body.

Patients work with a prosthetist, a medical specialist, to determine which prosthetic is right for their needs.

• What daily activities would you need to complete if you lost a limb?
• Why might the weight of the prosthetic matter?

Limbs comprise a percentage of your body weight, so they mustn't be cumbersome because they might impact your balance. The type of injury and amputation surgery required determines how extensive the artificial limb needs to be.

Above-the-knee or elbow prosthetics provide joint movement, while below-the-knee or elbow prosthetics have fixed hands or feet. Most prostheses improve the ability to complete daily tasks.

In the Got It? section, learn more about prosthetic hand designs and how they vary based on need and function.