The technology used in developing and constructing prosthetic limbs has come a long way over the centuries since it was first introduced.  The materials used to construct artificial limbs have gone from simple wooden pegs to the carbon fiber/titanium that is used in the technologically advanced prosthetic limb, the flex-foot, inc.

In the most technologically advanced prosthetic devices used today, a system of hydraulics is used in the joint of the limb to provide for the least amount of shock and stress as possible.

Today, with all of the computer technology that is available, three-dimensional, color images, are used to reveal stress distributions during various dynamic and static aspects of prosthetic usage.

For computerized images follow the link below, and scroll down to Socket and Tissue Stresses during gait.

Socket and Tissue Stresses
 
 

When designing a prosthetic device, for a lower extremity for example, the ultimate goal is to provide a prosthesis that has the external shape and appearance of a normal leg , and one which permits the amputee to walk comfortably and safely at normal rates on level ground. The prosthesis should be as comfortable as possible, and there should be little, if any, limp.  Other aspects that should be considered are; the weight, reliability, interchangeability and servicing of parts, cost, and ease of fitting.
 

A few examples of some of the most technologically advanced styles of prosthetic devices.

Flex-Foot, inc.
http://www.flexfoot.com/about/index.htm
 

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