Testing a New Concept of a Self-Adaptive Transtibial Prosthesis

Abstract

Abstract A considerable number of prosthetic medical devices for amputees are known. These devices do not fully replace the biological functions of the lost limb following lower amputations. In the case of pediatric patients, the problem is even more serious, as they are growing, it is necessary to regularly adjust the height of the prosthesis. Otherwise, a discrepancy occurs in the length of the limbs, that changes the center of gravity of the body of the prosthesis wearer, leading to related and sometimes serious pathologies. Currently, there are only classic, passive modules for adjusting the height of the prosthesis, but which are adjusted manually with low precision and extensive work. The present work contains the method of digital control of the prosthesis that can ensure the motorized height adjustment of the patient’s lower limb. The results obtained from the experimental tests are presented, which indicate that this type of concept is feasible from a biomechanical point of view and can be a technical advance in the market of prosthetic medical devices addressed to the pediatric area.