Adaptive socket adjusts prosthetic fit, improves users’ quality of life

A recent study published in Scientific Reports presents an adaptive prosthetic socket aimed at improving the lives of individuals with transtibial (below the knee) amputation and explores the functionality and user experience of this motor-driven adjustable socket. This research was led by Joan E. Sanders, PhD, of the UW Department of BioEngineering. Also on the project team were Professors Brian J. Hafner, PhD, and Janna L. Friedly, MD, MPH. 

Maintaining proper prosthetic socket fit is essential to prevent injury and ensure comfort for amputees. Traditional methods of adjusting socket fit, such as removing the prosthesis to add or remove socks, can be inconvenient and affect the user’s daily activities. This study examines a motor-driven adaptive socket that automatically adjusts its size during walking. The socket has inductive sensors that measure the distance between the elastomeric liner and the socket's inner surface. A controller adjusts the socket based on these measurements.

The adaptive socket was tested by 12 participants with transtibial amputation. On average, the controller was active for 68% of their walking time. Participants who walked more than 20 minutes per day with the adaptive socket reported greater activity levels, less time spent removing the prosthesis, and fewer manual adjustments compared to using a locked non-adjustable socket or a motor-driven socket adjusted via smartphone. Nine out of 12 participants indicated they would use the motor-driven adjustable socket if available, noting that it effectively addressed socket fit issues. Participants also suggested improvements in the size and weight of the device.

This study suggests that an adaptive prosthetic socket could provide a practical solution to the challenge of maintaining proper socket fit, enhancing daily comfort and functionality for people with transtibial amputation.