Prosthetics

Think leg day leaves you struggling to climb stairs? For someone without a limb, every step is a battle far tougher than a gym day. However, prosthetic limbs help ease that fight. The broader term, prosthesis, is key to understand first. Prosthesis is an external or an internal artificial body part that functions as a replacement of a missing limb. In the field of prosthetics, prosthesis are used, but many refer to prosthesis as prosthetic limbs. The purpose of a prosthesis is to help people live life to the fullest, restoring their mobility, independence, and confidence. Some common causes on why someone might use prostheses are cancer risk, amputation, birth defects, or chronic diseases. 

Prostheses that help with the daily demands of life, require the right materials. Over time, advancements in technology and materials made prosthetic limbs lighter, stronger, and more comfortable. Quality prosthesis consists of three main groups: Prosthetic Socket, Prosthetic Components, and Consumables. The socket is the custom-made part that fits directly over the residual limb. It’s the foundation of the prosthesis because it has to fit perfectly to avoid discomfort and injuries. Sockets are usually made from thermoplastics, laminated carbon fiber, or silicone as they offer comfort and are lightweight. The Prosthetic Components are the mechanical or electronic parts that make the prosthesis function. They can range from simple, non-movable parts to advanced robotic components that respond to muscle signals or even brain signals. Components also include pylons and joints that allow movement similar to natural limbs. The Consumables are the soft, replaceable parts that provide comfort and cushioning between the socket and the residual limb. Examples include liners, socks, and sleeves. On top of these basic components and materials the new concept of bionic limbs have started to create a bigger presence in the prosthetic department. Bionic limbs are modern tech controlled by brain signals. They allow users to move naturally, with some advanced models even giving back a sense of touch. For example, the LUKE Arm allows people to control movements with muscle signals and even feel pressure when gripping objects.

Prosthetic limbs are mainly developed in specialized hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and prosthetic clinics. In these places doctors and engineers work together to make and test prosthesis to make the best product for patients possible. The countries that are dominating prosthetic limb production are the United States, Germany, and Japan. They push the limits of function with new and upgraded technology. These three countries aren’t the only ones helping in the battle for better limbs but organizations throughout the world focus on low-cost prosthetics to underserved areas to make prosthetics accessible for all. Today, the use of prosthetic limbs is truly worldwide, supporting people in both advanced and developing regions to regain independence and mobility.

Even though prosthetics has been such an interesting innovation their history is even fascinating. For example, in Ancient Egypt simple wooden toes and prototypes of foot replacements were used to help people walk. During Roman times, injured soldiers used metal hands and arms to regain basic function. Major advancements came during and after World Wars I and II, when the need for better prosthetics for wounded soldiers drove innovation. By the 20th and 21st centuries, the development of robotics, lightweight materials, and 3D printing transformed prosthetics into the advanced, life-changing devices we know today.

Prosthetic limbs are more than just replacements for lost limbs—they restore independence, confidence, and dignity. From helping people walk again to enabling athletes to compete, prosthetics change lives and push the limits of human potential.

Written By: Harshita Mohapatra