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Feasibility testing of a novel prosthetic socket sensor system.
Tonya L Rich1,2, Greg Voss1, Stuart Fairhurst1
1Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America.
Disability and Rehabilitation
|July 7, 2022
Summary
A new sensor system for prosthetic sockets accurately detects poor fit, improving quality of life for amputees. This wearable technology offers valuable feedback, especially for new prosthesis users during training.
Area of Science:
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Technology
Background:
- Poorly fitting prosthetic sockets negatively impact amputees' quality of life and well-being.
- Achieving optimal prosthetic socket fit remains a significant clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and test a novel sensor system for prosthetic sockets.
- To measure distal end weight bearing and detect suspected poor socket fit.
Main Methods:
- A novel sensor system was incorporated into prosthetic sockets.
- Data collected during walking trials with varying sock plies.
- Sensor measurements correlated with clinician-assessed socket fit levels.
Main Results:
- Consistent relationships were found between peak sensor measurements and socket fit.
- The system successfully identified varying degrees of socket fit.
- All participants expressed interest in the device's potential benefits.
Conclusions:
- A novel wearable sensor system can identify prosthetic socket fit issues.
- This technology shows promise for improving rehabilitation and training for prosthesis users.
- The system may be particularly beneficial for new users and those with cognitive or sensory challenges.
