Hannah RE

STAROS A

Zahedi MS

Background The alignment of the lower limb prosthesis is an integral part of the prosthetic fitting. A properly aligned prosthesis contributes to optimal gait and overall function of the patient. The current offering of alignment componentry is expensive for low-income countries. The purpose of this study was to develop a lightweight and low-cost alignment coupler for the lower limb prosthesis. Methods An alignment coupler called the reversible adjustable coupling was designed and manufactured. Measurements of total anterior/posterior and medial/lateral and rotation in prostheses were recorded and mechanical testing performed. Swiftness and difficulty of use was also recorded. Results The reversible adjustable coupling permitted acceptable ranges of anterior/posterior and medial/lateral translation and 30° of internal and external rotation of prosthetic componentry. Repetitive loading of the coupling at a speed of 1 Hz under 1.28 kN load for 2000 cycles was successful, as were static and strength tests. Discussion The coupler provided acceptable ranges of anterior/posterior and medial/lateral and rotation adjustment and is acceptable for potential use in the alignment of both exoskeletal and endoskeletal prosthesis. The final weight of the component was 166 g and cost of $55.00 USD is affordable for low-income countries for use in clinical and educational settings. </jats:sec

Kazuhiko Sasaki

Jutamat Pinitlertsakun

Pakwan Nualnim

Gary Guerra

Yuttapichai Sansook

Supachai Kaewdoung

Suttinun Chotirossukon

Parichat Lanlongsa

Pairat Tangpornprasert

Chanyaphan Virulsri

Wit Nattavut

Danupong Buttonkum

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Journal of Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies Engineering

The reversible adjustable coupling: A lightweight and low-cost alignment component for the lower limb prosthesis

The reversible adjustable coupling: A lightweight and low-cost alignment component for the lower limb prosthesis

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