Whether you have a birth defect or you’ve lost a limb in an unfortunate accident, prosthetics offer you the chance to fill the void left behind. Around 45,000 people in the UK rely on prosthetic limbs, showing their prevalence in the modern-day.
Prosthetics are without a doubt a great invention and are extremely impressive. However, modern advancements in technology mean they’re more impressive than ever.
If you’ve never been up close to prosthetics or don’t know someone who needs one, you may not know what they are and what their history looks like. Our article below will take a closer look at them and how they’ve advanced in modern times too. Continue reading to find out more.
What are prosthetics?
Prosthetics are artificial devices that are used to replace a missing part of the body. These are typically limbs and usually comprise an upper or lower section. The key components they feature include a socket, joint mechanisms, a pylon and a terminal device.
The NHS supports those in need of prosthetics and invests around £60 million per year into these services. Alternatively, prosthetics are available in private clinics.
The history of prosthetics
Prosthetics have been seen throughout most of the Earth’s history with the first evidence being in ancient Egypt when a wooden toe was found on a mummy. Ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and the American Civil War all used them too.
In the 20 th and 21 st centuries, they have become commonplace in everyday life and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
How have prosthetics advanced?
In recent times, prosthetics have advanced incredibly well, enhancing their look, design and functionality to assist wearers further.
Material and design innovations
Prosthetics used to be made of wood or metal, making them heavy for users. Modern advancements mean better materials like carbon fibre, silicone and advanced polymers are used, which are lighter, more durable and flexible.
Integration of bionics
Many prosthetic limbs can use sensors to detect electrical signals from the wearer’s body. These signals can then be converted into motions, allowing users to control them and recreate movements that regular limbs would make.
Accessibility and customisation
You can now customise prosthetics to match your skin tone or add features that you want. This ensures you’re fully satisfied with the look and you can make them look as natural as possible.
How do I get prosthetics after an amputation?
- Speaking to a professional to see if you can get a prosthetic limb
- Speak to an amputation claims solicitor to see if you have grounds to make a claim. This can
be used to pay for your new limb and rehabilitation - Go for casting and measurement
- Get it designed and fitted, then begin training and rehabilitation
Stewart Thurlow
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