Glossary

Shoulder-Disarticulation

Type of amputation at the level of the ankle. It is a type of ankle disarticulation where the maleoli are reduced to make a less bulbous distal end. Most often done on a two stage operation.

Portion of prosthesis that the residual limb/stump fits into and to which prosthetic components are attached.

A system that provides suspension by means of negative pressure or a vacuum in a socket. This is achieved by forcing air out of the socket through a one-way valve when donning and using the prosthesis.

“Solid Ankle, Cushion Heel” prosthetic foot

suspension belt used in lower extremity prosthetics

A prosthetic knee that rotates around a single pivot.

can be made of closed cell foam, silicone, gel, leather, other materials for cushioning the residual limb. They are used between the socket and the residual limb.

Inner socket liner of foam, rubber, leather, other material for cushioning the residual limb.

A type of terminal device with two hook-shaped fingers operated through the action of harness and cable systems. Many different varieties designed for different functions.

A braking or locking mechanism within a prosthetic knee unit to add stability and to prevent buckling of the knee when weight is transferred onto the prosthesis.

tubular open-ended cotton or nylon material that comes in different sizes. It is used for casting, innerface, and fabrication processes.

A compression sock worn on a residual limb to reduce swelling and shape the limb. An elastic wrap (Ace) when wrapped properly makes the best shrinker.

Wool, cotton, or blended materials used as a sock worn over residual limb to provide a cushion between the skin and socket interface. They come in different sizes, shapes and thicknesses called plys.

The portion of limb remaining after amputation.

Usually refers to how the prosthesis is held on and sometimes the orthosis; which may include suction, a strap or belt, a wedge, a silicone or neoprene sleeve or other method.

type of prosthetic suspension, to hold on a prosthesis, made of different materials

A manual use of electric switches to control and operate an electric elbow, wrist rotator or terminal device (hand).