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Essential Requirements and Relevant Technologies for Load-Bearing 3D-Printed Transtibial Prosthetic Sockets and Their
Erika Dagge1,2, Breda Clancy3, Gavin Keane1
1Department of Mechnical and Polymer Engineering, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, University Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 HD68, Ireland, 090 6468291.
JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies
|December 17, 2025
Summary
Additive manufacturing (AM) offers a sustainable path for creating load-bearing prosthetic lower limb sockets. This review explores AM technologies, protocols, and challenges for clinical adoption in prosthetic socket production.
Area of Science:
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Additive Manufacturing
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Traditional prosthetic socket manufacturing relies on skilled technicians and clinicians for bespoke solutions.
- Additive Manufacturing (AM) is often perceived for low-weight-bearing prostheses, creating a misconception for load-bearing applications.
- There is a growing need for sustainable, efficient, and digitalized production methods in prosthetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a framework for utilizing AM in load-bearing prosthetic applications, differentiating from non-load-bearing uses.
- To review current trends, protocols, and advancements in AM for load-bearing transtibial prosthetic sockets and components.
- To highlight key requirements and technologies essential for load-bearing transtibial prosthetic socket fabrication using AM.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review of publications over the past 25 years.
- Focus on identifying key requirements and technologies specific to load-bearing transtibial prosthetic sockets.
- Analysis of commonly used AM technologies and structural testing standards.
Main Results:
- Selective Laser Sintering and Multi Jet Fusion (binder jetting) are prominent AM solutions for commercial use.
- The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 10328 standard is frequently used for evaluating the strength and durability of lower limb sockets produced via AM.
- Clinician and technician experiences with digital workflows in load-bearing prosthetic applications were documented.
Conclusions:
- Barriers to AM adoption include the need for enhanced clinician and technician education and skill development.
- Increased exposure to innovative technologies and trust in digital process regulation are crucial for widespread clinical adoption.
- Addressing these barriers is essential for leveraging AM's potential in load-bearing prosthetic applications.
