Automatically adjusting socket for below-knee prostheses
An automatically-adjusting prosthetic socket for people with transtibial amputation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11320787
A prosthetic socket that automatically changes size to keep a comfortable, stable fit for people with below-knee (transtibial) amputations.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11320787 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project aims to give you a socket that shifts its internal size on its own so your residual limb stays comfortable and stable. The team is adding a small remote key fob and two automatic adjustment modes: one for short walking bouts and one to help limb fluid volume recover while sitting. They will refine the device and algorithms with lab testing using people with transtibial amputation and prosthetists, then test the full system in daily life in three modes: automatic, manual, and locked. Feedback from participants and clinicians will guide engineering updates between clinical tests.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with transtibial (below-knee) amputation who use a prosthetic socket and experience changing socket fit or limb volume and who can attend device testing are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with above-knee amputations, those who do not use a socket, or individuals unable to participate in device testing or follow study procedures are unlikely to benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the automatic socket could reduce daily fit hassles, protect limb health, and improve independence and quality of life for below-knee amputees.
How similar studies have performed: The research team has previously developed an auto-adjusting socket prototype and early work showed promise, and this project builds on that with a smaller key fob and new algorithms.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SANDERS, JOAN E. — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: SANDERS, JOAN E.
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.