Adjustable comfort socket and frame for below‑elbow prosthetic arms
The Advancement of a New Variable-Compliance Socket and Frame System forTransradial Amputees to Optimize Socket Fit and Upper Limb Function
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION · NIH-11220710
Developing an adjustable, athletic‑inspired socket and harness to make prosthetic arms more comfortable and functional for people with below‑elbow (transradial) amputations.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11220710 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be invited to help design and try a new socket and harness called the K‑Socket‑Harness (KSH) built from textile and frame parts inspired by athletic shoe technology. The team will first refine the design for broader use and manufacturability, then work with a small group of experienced Veterans with different residual limb lengths to get hands‑on feedback and make changes. After revisions, a larger group will compare the improved KSH to each person’s current prosthesis through everyday and structured activities to look for differences in comfort and function. The project uses a participatory action design approach so your input will directly shape the device.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults—especially Veterans—with transradial (below‑elbow) amputations who currently use or have experience using a prosthetic arm and can attend in‑person visits.
Not a fit: People with above‑elbow or shoulder‑level amputations, or those who do not use prosthetic limbs, are unlikely to benefit from this specific socket design.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the KSH could increase socket comfort, encourage longer prosthesis wear, and improve arm and hand function during daily activities.
How similar studies have performed: Early preliminary tests showed promising results, but this specific textile‑based, variable‑compliance socket approach is relatively new and still being validated.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: COOPER, RORY A. — VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
- Study coordinator: COOPER, RORY A.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.