Prosthetics for Lower Limb Amputation

*P. Senthil Selvam, M. Sandhiya, K. Chandrasekaran, D. Hepzibah Rubella and S. Karthikeyan*

### **Abstract**

The Chapter will include a brief note on Amputation, Particularly Lower Limb Amputation (LLA), Levels and Causes of LLA. Importance of Prosthetics for LLA are explained in detail. The types of Prosthesis, Application (Donning & Doffing) of prosthesis are included in this chapter. Diagrammatic representation of the prosthesis are added too. Bio mechanical component is explained in detail within this chapter. The advantages and disadvantages of each and every Lower limb Prosthesis are clearly mentioned. Moreover, the Gait analysis & Training after the application of prosthesis are discussed. The reader will get a complete picture of Prosthetics for Lower limb Amputation by going through this chapter for lower limb prosthesis.

**Keywords:** lower limb prosthesis, donning & doffing, advantages & disadvantages of prosthesis, materials used for prosthesis, types of prosthesis

#### **1. Introduction**

This chapter is written to give information about the basic knowledge about the prosthesis, its types, its application and its advantages. The readers can understand the concept of Prosthesis with respect to biomechanical principles and how the Amputee can adapt himself to the usage of prosthesis with simple explanation. Hence, the chapter gives a overview about the lower limb prosthesis with illustrated pictures for better understanding.

Prosthetics are otherwise known as artificial limbs. They are the device used to replace a missing limb, either upper limb or lower limb. Thereby, the prosthesis are used by a amputee. The amputee by wearing this device, can able to stand walks, maintain balance and regain erect posture. The science of creating artificial body parts is called prosthetics. This prosthesis is designed and manufactured by prosthetist. He also fits the artificial limbs (prosthesis) for people with disabilities especially amputees.

#### **2. Lower limb prostheses**

Prostheses is most commonly prescriped for lower limb amputation. Amputation is defined as the removal of the limb through a part of the bone [1] the lower limb amputation is the most common amputation nearly 85 percent of all amputations. The function of lower limb is weight bearing and locomotion. Lower limb

prostheses is used to provide an individual who has an amputated limb with the opportunity to perform functional tasks, particularly ambulation (walking) which may not be possible without the limb.
