How do Artificial Limbs Work?
Several components of artificial limbs work together in order for the devices to function properly. These components are the pylon, the socket, and the suspension system. Since they are made from lightweight material, the user can control the artificial limbs easily. The artificial limb’s framework is called the pylon. In the past, pylon was constructed from metal to provide support for the limb. Today, it is manufactured from carbon-fiber composites. The pylon usually covered by foam and can often be dyed the shade of the user’s skin color so that it has a more natural appearance.
Several components of artificial limbs work together in order for the devices to function properly. These components are the pylon, the socket, and the suspension system. Since they are made from lightweight material, the user can control the artificial limbs easily. The artificial limb’s framework is called the pylon. In the past, pylon was constructed from metal to provide support for the limb. Today, it is manufactured from carbon-fiber composites. The pylon usually covered by foam and can often be dyed the shade of the user’s skin color so that it has a more natural appearance. The socket is the part of the artificial limb that connects with the patient’s residual limb, or limb stump. In order to make the socket more comfortable, it is usually lined with a soft material. Some users may opt to wear several prosthetic socks so that the socket fits better. This is essential since the socket of the artificial limb can irritate the skin if it does not have sufficient padding.
