Intelligent body interface for lower-limb prosthetics

Abstract

The interface between the lower limb residuum and prosthetic socket is critical to facilitate effective load transfer, ensure mobility and comfort during activities of daily living. Residua tissue is not biologically accustomed to sustain prolonged exposure to multidirectional loading (pressure and shear). Proper socket fit has long been recognised in the field as essential to ensure comfort and tissue safety. Socket fit during daily activities is often achieved by amputees through use of prosthetic liners and accessories such as socks and pressure pads. However, both pressure and shear exist at the socket interface, whereby the magnitudes and distribution of pressure and shear across the socket interface changes dynamically with motion of the residuum relative to the socket. Ultimately, a well-fitted socket aims to achieve even loading distribution across the interface to reduce local stress concentrations which may lead to discomfort, pain and tissue breakdown. Experimental and computational tools, such as sensor technology and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) have been used as a means of evaluating residuum/socket biomechanics to better inform socket design and fit. However, the harsh microclimate and variations in multidirectional loading experienced by different amputees means understanding of residuum/socket biomechanics is still lacking, particularly at local sites of the residuum (e.g., load-tolerant and sensitive sites). Despite advancements in technology, there is also a lack of intelligent materials to help improve interface stress distribution. To this end, this project involves combined use of computational (i.e., FEA) and experimental tools (i.e., pressure and shear sensors) to assess dynamic interactions at socket interfaces during ambulatory activities. Analyses conducted provided biomechanical insight in response to loading at local anatomical sites, which was subsequently used to develop and study novel mechanical metamaterials for advanced custom liners. It is envisioned that findings generated by this research could potentially aid understanding of socket interface biomechanics, which may facilitate improved rehabilitation outcomes for lower limb amputees.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Kirstie Devin: orcid.org/0000-0001-6794-2375

ORCID for Liudi Jiang: orcid.org/0000-0002-3400-825X

ORCID for Andrew Hamilton: orcid.org/0000-0003-4627-849X

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