Implantable Force-Distribution Support for Residual Limb Pain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lower-limb amputees face difficulties in adapting to prosthetic limbs due to the loss of non-compressible fluid hydrodynamic systems, leading to intensified forces on the residual limb, causing pain and discomfort during ambulation.
Innovation Solution
An implantable force-distribution support structure that distributes weight and forces over a larger surface area of the residual limb, mimicking the natural hydrodynamic system, using a resilient-support material like elastomeric or gel-like substances to absorb and redirect forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a prosthetic limb is attached to a residual limb with a blunt-ended terminal bone, then the prosthetic device can be securely attached, but the forces of ambulation become intensified at the terminal end causing pain and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
A force distribution support structure is introduced as an intermediary component between the residual limb and the prosthetic device. This structure includes a support bracket with a resilient support (such as elastomeric or gel-like material) that contacts the terminal bone end, distributing the ambulation forces over a larger surface area and reducing the harmful force concentration at the blunt-ended terminal bone.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the interface between the residual limb and prosthetic device by introducing a resilient support material with specific mechanical properties (durometer, elasticity). This material absorbs and redistributes forces, transforming the force distribution pattern from concentrated to distributed, thereby reducing pain while maintaining secure attachment.
2Device complexity
If the non-compressible fluid hydrodynamic system is lost due to amputation, then the prosthetic device can be simpler in design, but the musculo-skeletal system loses its natural shock absorption capability
Solution Approach 1:
The force distribution support structure utilizes the resilient support material's inherent viscoelastic properties to automatically absorb and distribute forces during ambulation. The material self-adjusts to the dynamic loading conditions, providing shock absorption without requiring complex active control systems or power sources, thus maintaining simplicity while restoring the hydrodynamic function.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient support material (elastomeric or gel-like) functions as a hydrodynamic shock absorber, using the fluidity and compressibility of the material to dissipate forces. This mimics the natural hydrodynamic system of the body, where non-compressible fluid in joints absorbs and distributes mechanical forces, thereby restoring the lost shock absorption capability without complex mechanical systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If forces are distributed over a larger area of the residual limb, then pain and discomfort are reduced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient support is implemented as a flexible material layer (shell or film) within the support bracket structure. This thin, flexible layer conforms to the terminal bone end and distributes forces over a larger surface area. The flexible material provides the necessary force distribution function while adding minimal structural complexity compared to rigid alternative designs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces pain and discomfort by distributing ambulation forces more evenly, improving the dynamic interaction between the residual limb and external prosthetics, and restoring the axial skeleton's role in force absorption.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient-support can be made from any suitable material, including, but not limited to, elastomeric materials, gel-like materials, or other materials having resilient properties. The resilient-support can be made from a single material or from a combination of materials. The resilient-support can have uniform or non-uniform properties throughout.
Implementation Method 2
a resilient-support (40) that can be implanted onto a terminal bone end... The resilient-support can provide shock absorption and a larger surface area over which the forces exerted on the residual limb can be distributed
Implementation Method 3
The support bracket can have a shape and/or configuration that causes forces applied to the terminal bone end to be distributed over more of the resilient-support. This can reduce the amount of force applied to any one area of the resilient-support.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject invention pertains to embodiments of a device for implantation into a residual amputated limb. More specifically, the subject invention provides one or more embodiments of an implantable force-distribution support that can be installed onto the terminal end of a bone or bone stump in a residual limb. The force-distribution support can restore the natural hydrodynamic system of the skeleton and can re-engage the axial skeleton as a factor in absorbing forces of ambulation. Embodiments can include a support bracket that can be attached to the terminal bone end to which a resilient-support can be attached to protect residual tissue from compression forces.