Visualising socket pressure in lower-limb prostheses
File(s)
Author(s)
Turner, Shruti
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Prosthetic sockets are a vital component of lower-limb prostheses, which must be individually made due to unique anatomy and requirements. Creating a prosthetic socket is an iterative process using theory and experience. There is no standard measurement system to aid socket creation despite the severe physical and psychosocial impacts of an ill-fitting socket. Various published studies outline socket pressure measurement systems in research; however, the limited number of technologies available for clinical use demonstrates minimal translation.
This thesis outlines the steps taken through discovery and definition of the problem and developing and delivering a clinical biofeedback tool and data dashboard. The quantitative information is intended to complement subjective prosthesis user feedback to aid lower-limb prosthetic fitting and inform gait and movement re-education.
First-hand perspectives of prosthetic rehabilitation experiences were sought to understand key issues. Socket fit was particularly important, with user testing establishing the desire for a greater understanding of socket pressure. Methods to gain objective measures of socket pressure were explored via a systematic review of published literature. Custom made piezoresistive sensors were chosen to demonstrate the value of translating socket pressure sensors into the clinical environment. Initial participant testing was conducted in the laboratory to collect pressure data during activities of daily living.
This thesis outlines the steps taken through discovery and definition of the problem and developing and delivering a clinical biofeedback tool and data dashboard. The quantitative information is intended to complement subjective prosthesis user feedback to aid lower-limb prosthetic fitting and inform gait and movement re-education.
First-hand perspectives of prosthetic rehabilitation experiences were sought to understand key issues. Socket fit was particularly important, with user testing establishing the desire for a greater understanding of socket pressure. Methods to gain objective measures of socket pressure were explored via a systematic review of published literature. Custom made piezoresistive sensors were chosen to demonstrate the value of translating socket pressure sensors into the clinical environment. Initial participant testing was conducted in the laboratory to collect pressure data during activities of daily living.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2021-05
Date Awarded
2021-10
Copyright Statement
Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial Licence
License URL
Advisor
McGregor, Alison
Vaidyanathan, Ravi
Sponsor
Royal British Legion
Publisher Department
Surgery and Cancer
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)