Improving prosthetic arm fit and function for veterans with transradial amputations
Official title: The Advancement of a New Variable-Compliance Socket and Frame System forTransradial Amputees to Optimize Socket Fit and Upper Limb Function
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10990469 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a new, more comfortable prosthetic arm system for veterans who have lost part of their arm below the elbow, and it will involve veterans in the design process to make sure it really works for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004257-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990469 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans with transradial amputations, particularly those who have experienced discomfort with their current prosthetic devices.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have transradial amputations or those who are not veterans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new socket and harness system for prosthetic arms specifically designed for veterans with transradial amputations. The project will utilize advanced textile technology inspired by athletic shoes to enhance comfort and fit. Through a participatory action design and engineering process, the research will involve veterans in the design and evaluation phases to ensure the new system meets their needs. A larger cohort of veterans will then be enrolled to compare the new design against their current prosthetic devices to assess improvements in function and comfort.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more comfortable and functional prosthetic arms for veterans, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving prosthetic designs through innovative materials and participatory design approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cooper, Rory a. — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Cooper, Rory a.
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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.