Affiliation:
1. Takoradi Technical University, Ghana
Abstract
This chapter focused on sculptural fabricated prosthetic socket for a transtibial (below-knee) amputee. As part of this study, an in-depth examination of the special needs for lower limb prostheses with quality and attractiveness was conducted in Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. Qualitative inquiry employing studio-based and descriptive research designs was drawn from collecting data from ten (10) purposively selected samples consisting of two (2) Prosthetists, one (1) Orthotist, two (2) Laboratory technicians, one (1) Amputee, one (1) STMA official and three (3) Sculptors. Research instruments comprising personal interviews and direct observations were used for the on-site data collection for the study. Data were analysed using thematic content and input-output transformation model analysis tools. The results revealed that producing a prosthetic socket for the amputee increased the active workforce of the amputee. Prosthetic socket fabrication should be made a course-related programme in the sculpture technology department at Takoradi Technical University together with Supomu-Dunkwa health centre and STMA.