A comfortable and optimal fitting socket is the cornerstone of successful upper limb prosthesis provision. Socket discomfort, which is a major reason for prosthesis rejection, can be caused by factors such as poor fit, pressure points, and problems with perspiration and temperature regulation. This workshop provides an overview of new approaches to socket design, using the newest technologies. The different techniques will be illustrated with a series of actual cases from daily practice.
The workshop will start with a brief overview of the history of upper limb socket development, describing the evolution of fitting methods and socket materials being used, towards comfortable self-suspending sockets.
We will demonstrate the application of dial driven laces, to create user adjustable sockets, allowing for supra-olecranon suspension, volume adjustment as well as maintaining optimal electrode pressure, to create stable myo-signals and prevent muscle fatigue.
Both low- and high-level limb absence will be covered. A new approach will be presented, which uses a telescopic socket, to create a very lightweight and highly functional shoulder level prosthesis.
The application of CAD design and 3D-printing of sockets will be examined. This has opened up new possibilities in socket design, with new materials and new open design. We will show how open socket design, with adjustable features, can improve ventilation and volume management, to increase user comfort, as well as easier donning and doffing.
The presenters of the workshop are experts with decades of experience in the field, who have been working in the clinic, in industry and academia.
Statement of the objective / learning objectives
After attending the workshop, the participants can:
describe the challenges involved in creating a comfortable, high performance upper extremity prosthesis.
describe how new advanced socket techniques can solve common socket problems and improve socket comfort.
