Perceived Socket Comfort, Suspension, And Gait Abilities In Transtibial Amputees Using Hybrid Gel Liners Compared to Gel and Silicone Liners
Date of Award
Summer 6-26-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Amy Funke
Abstract
Prosthetic liners have revolutionized the way prostheses fit, function, and support the functional needs of persons with amputations. This study seeks to examine the impact of traditional thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) gel, hybrid gel, and silicone-based liners on K3 individuals with transtibial amputation, exploring how various material interfaces are perceived by the participants. Currently, there is insufficient research in the field to determine the user’s experience between different transtibial liners. The objective of the research was to assess the perceived comfort level of the socket, functional gait abilities, and suspension as it relates to socket control on the residual limb, as well as the liner/skin interface, in participants who switched from using a hybrid gel liner to a classic (TPE) gel liner and a silicone liner. Outcomes from participants were collected through self-reported measures after the fitting and gait trials. Participants completed a questionnaire with 15 questions in a 5-point Likert scale format for each liner used in the trial. After concluding all three testing trials, patients were asked to complete an open-ended reflection question, allowing them to expand on their personal feedback regarding the different liner interfaces. These questionnaires were completed by participants during the single-blind trials of both the gel and silicone liner following testing trials. Predicted outcomes from the study include better scores across comfort, suspension, and gait ability with Hybrid gel liners.