SOCKETS
Lack of socket comfort is probably the most common reason for rejection of a prosthesis by our level of amputation. One of the older studies done about this issue concluded that only 15% of all HP/HD's will wear their legs long term. Over the last ten years, this statistic has been increased to over 65% due to two changes:
 |
Contoured Socket Fit |
|
|
Softer Materials |
I am NOT an expert about prosthetics. In my personal quest to get a new leg made, I did a lot of reading, research and asked a lot of questions. What I learned is presented here. If you're interested in reading the original articles for yourself, some of the references are:
The Amputee Coalition of America recently published an article in their magazine "In Motion" about fitting a Hemipelvectomy and Hip-disarticulation prosthetic. March/April 1999. This is now available on-line at the following address:
www.amputee-coalition.org/inmotion/mar_apr_99/pros_primer_hip_dis.html
"The CAT-CAM-H.D. A New Design for Hip Disarticulation Patients" by John Sabolich, B.S., C.P.O. and Thomas Guth, B.A., C.P.O. Reprints are available by contacting:
RGP Prosthetic Research Center
6147 University Ave
San Diego, CA 92115
(800) 5451932
www.rgp.com
"Hip Disarticulation: Prosthetic Management" by Tony van der Waarde, C.P., F.C.B.C. and John W. Micheal, M.Ed., C.P.O. This article can be accessed on line and directly downloaded from:
amp-domain.com/award/disartic.html
"Ottawa Experience with Hip Disarticulation Prostheses" By Tony van der Waarde. For copies contact:
http://www.awardprosthetics.com
info@awardprosthetics.com
TO THE PROSTHETISTS: Your input is welcome. I am grateful for any pictures or illustrations that may be better than what I have presented. Please e-mail to the address below in JPG or equivalent graphic format. Photos may also be mailed and will be returned upon request.
Socket Concepts
| Socket Materials | Socket Fabrication
