Effects of Arm Prosthesis Socket Design on Pressure Distribution on the Inner Surface of the Socket

Abstract

Biomechanical studies of the distribution of specific pressure across the internal surface of the socket were performed, focusing on the end of the arm stump during manipulation of the prosthesis. This was undertaken using a matrix of tensometric multisensory probes. These studies showed that peak loadings at local zones decreased significantly with increases in the area and continuity of contact of the skin of the stump with the internal surface of the socket. The best results were obtained using combined sockets made from silicone.