Prosthetic limbs
Prosthetic Limbs
A Summary of What Prosthetic Limbs Are
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What are the different types of prosthetic limbs on the market?
- Transfemoral prosthetics (above-knee).
- Transtibial prosthetics (below-knee).
- Upper limb prosthetics (arm and hand).
- Partial foot prosthetics.
- Cosmetic prosthetics (for appearance).
- Functional prosthetics (for mobility and function).
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A Brief History of Prosthetics
- Ancient civilizations used rudimentary prosthetics.
- The development of wooden and metal prosthetics in the Middle Ages.
- World War I and II advanced prosthetic technology significantly.
- The introduction of myoelectric prosthetics in the late 20th century.
- Current trends include 3D printing and personalized prosthetics.
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Which Parts of the Body Can't Be Replaced by Prosthetics?
- Internal organs (heart, lungs, etc.).
- Brain and central nervous system.
- Skin (though prosthetics can cover some areas).
- Spinal cord and vertebrae.
- Facial features (though reconstructive options exist).
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N.B. and Disclaimer
- ⊗ Note: Regular follow-ups with a prosthetist are essential for optimal fit and function.
- ⊗ Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or treatment options.
Words & Phrases to Remember
| Term | Definition | Click to hear it |
|---|---|---|
| Facet Joint | The joints in the spine that allow for flexibility and movement. | ˈfæs.ɪt dʒɔɪnt |
| Osteoarthritis | A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage. | ˌɑs.ti.oʊ.ɑrˈθraɪ.tɪs |
| Prosthesis | An artificial device that replaces a missing body part. | ˈprɒs.θɪ.sɪs |
| Bionic Limb | A high-tech prosthetic limb that uses advanced technology to mimic natural movement. | baɪˈɒn.ɪk lɪm |
| Residual Limb | The remaining part of a limb after amputation. | rɪˈzɪd.ju.əl lɪm |
| Stump | Informal term for the residual limb after amputation. | stʌmp |
| Osseointegration | The process of a prosthetic implant integrating with bone. | ˌɒs.i.oʊˌɪn.tɪˈɡreɪ.ʃən |
| Socket | The part of a prosthetic limb that fits around the residual limb. | ˈsɒk.ɪt |
| Myoelectric Prosthesis | A prosthetic limb controlled by electrical signals from the user’s muscles. | ˌmaɪ.oʊ.ɪˈlɛk.trɪk ˈprɒs.θɪ.sɪs |
| Pylon | A structural component in a prosthetic limb that provides support and stability. | ˈpaɪ.lən |
| Liner | A cushioned sleeve worn over the residual limb to provide comfort and protection inside the socket. | ˈlaɪ.nər |
| Phantom Limb | The sensation that an amputated limb is still present, often accompanied by pain or discomfort. | ˈfæn.təm lɪm |
| Gait Training | Rehabilitation process to help prosthetic users learn to walk naturally. | ɡeɪt ˈtreɪ.nɪŋ |
| Prosthetist | A healthcare professional who designs, fits, and maintains prosthetic devices. | ˈprɒs.θə.tɪst |
| Suspension System | The mechanism that secures a prosthetic limb to the residual limb. | səˈspɛn.ʃən ˈsɪs.təm |
| Endoskeletal Prosthesis | A prosthetic limb with an internal framework covered by a cosmetic shell. | ˌɛn.doʊˈskɛl.ɪ.təl ˈprɒs.θɪ.sɪs |
| Exoskeletal Prosthesis | A prosthetic limb with a rigid outer shell that provides structural support. | ˌɛk.soʊˈskɛl.ɪ.təl ˈprɒs.θɪ.sɪs |
| Cosmesis | The cosmetic covering of a prosthetic limb to resemble natural appearance. | kɒzˈmiː.sɪs |
| Alignment | Adjusting the prosthetic limb's components to ensure proper fit and function. | əˈlaɪn.mənt |
| Neuroma | A painful nerve tissue growth that can develop after amputation. | njʊˈroʊ.mə |
| Proprioception | The body's ability to sense movement and position, often altered after limb loss. | ˌproʊ.pri.oʊˈsɛp.ʃən |
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