Development and Usability of an Adjustable Prosthesis for Aquatic Therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Individuals with lower-limb differences face limitations in aquatic therapy without a prosthesis.
• Existing noncustom prostheses for transtibial amputees in aquatic settings are limited.
• Dilatancy has not been previously applied in prosthetic sockets for accommodative shaping.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the development of an adjustable prosthesis for aquatic therapy.
• To assess the usability of a dilatancy-based prosthetic socket for multiple users.
• To improve rehabilitation capabilities for individuals with transtibial amputations during aquatic therapy.

Main Methods:

• A developmental study involving three participants with unilateral transtibial amputations.
• Development of interchangeable, adjustable sockets and pylons utilizing dilatant properties.
• Usability assessment via the System Usability Scale, comfort scoring, and time to don the prosthesis during aquatic therapy sessions.

Main Results:

• The developed prosthesis was rated as usable for aquatic therapy by both participants and therapists.
• High System Usability Scale scores (participant: 87.5-97.5; therapist: 85-92.5) were achieved.
• Positive feedback on socket comfort and efficient donning times were reported.

Conclusions:

• The dilatancy-based adjustable prosthesis is a functional, noncustom solution for multiple users in aquatic therapy.
• The system successfully enhanced rehabilitation capabilities in an aquatic environment.
• This innovative approach offers improved prosthetic options for individuals with transtibial limb differences.