Wearable Sensor Technology for Hyperhidrosis Management in Individuals With Prosthetic Limbs: A Narrative Review

Wearable sensor technologies offer a cutting-edge solution for managing hyperhidrosis in individuals with prosthetic limbs, directly addressing the complex challenges posed by excessive sweating at the prosthetic-skin interface. Excessive moisture can lead to skin breakdown, increased risk of infections, and compromised prosthetic fit, all of which reduce functionality and user comfort. Advanced biosensors embedded within the system continuously monitor moisture levels and skin temperature in real time, providing precise data on sweat production and skin conditions. This data is relayed to mobile health platforms, allowing users and clinicians to make informed, immediate adjustments, such as modifying prosthetic materials, adjusting fit, or activating integrated cooling mechanisms to mitigate complications. Integrating real-time feedback into the device's function offers a personalized, noninvasive approach, enhancing both comfort and long-term prosthetic performance while surpassing traditional hyperhidrosis treatments like systemic medications, topical therapies, or invasive interventions such as botulinum toxin injections. However, limitations such as sensor calibration issues in fluctuating environmental conditions, sensor durability, and ensuring user compliance remain challenges. Future advancements may incorporate machine learning algorithms to predict and preempt hyperhidrosis episodes, offering even more precise control and adaptability. With the potential for seamless integration into telemedicine platforms, wearable sensor technologies have the potential to revolutionize the management of hyperhidrosis for prosthetic users, offering a personalized, real-time solution that addresses both medical and functional challenges.