OPC Prosthetics Written key terms

A structured evaluation of the remaining limb after amputation, covering length, shape, volume, skin integrity, scars, sensation, tenderness, joint range of motion, and muscle strength, used to judge readiness for a prosthesis.

Ongoing control of residual limb size through compression, wrapping, shrinker socks, positioning, and diuretics when indicated, so the socket continues to fit as swelling resolves and muscle bulk changes.

The remaining portion of the leg after amputation above the knee, typically with a rounded or conical shape, preserved adductor function, and a need for ischial containment or subischial socket design.

The remaining portion of the leg after amputation below the knee, usually including the tibial tubercle and patellar tendon, with a bony crest and distal tibia that require careful relief in the socket.

The anatomic site at which the limb was removed, such as transradial, transfemoral, or Syme, which determines available joints, leverage, socket type, and the functional potential of the eventual prosthesis.

A nonpainful awareness that the amputated part is still present, often described as tingling, pressure, or position sense; it is common, usually fades, and is distinct from phantom pain.

Painful sensations perceived in the absent limb, which may be burning, cramping, or shooting; assessment should record frequency, triggers, and effect on prosthetic use so treatment can be coordinated.

A graded program of tapping, massage, vibration, or texture exposure applied to the residual limb to reduce hypersensitivity and improve tolerance of socket contact and weight bearing.

Measurement of a patient's ability to move and perform daily tasks, using scales such as the K-level or Locomotor Capabilities Index, to set realistic prosthetic goals and justify component selection.

A Medicare functional classification from K0 to K4 that describes a patient's potential to ambulate with a prosthesis, guiding which foot, knee, and component technology is appropriate and reimbursable.

A written plan that states the amputation level, functional goals, socket and suspension design, component choices, training needs, timeline, and expected outcomes, derived from assessment findings.

The formal order specifying the device to be fabricated, including socket type, suspension, joints, terminal device, and foot, with rationale tied to the patient's measured needs and payer requirements.

A group of professionals such as prosthetist, physician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, nurse, and social worker who share assessment and goal information to coordinate prosthetic care.

The process of explaining a proposed prosthetic procedure, its alternatives, risks, and expected outcomes, then obtaining the patient's voluntary agreement before care begins.

The legally defined set of services a prosthetist may perform, such as assessment, casting, fitting, and adjustment, and the limits beyond which referral to another professional is required.

Directing a patient to another qualified professional, such as a physician for a wound or a therapist for gait training, when the need falls outside the prosthetist's competence or legal scope.

A mold of the residual limb made with plaster or fiberglass wrap, capturing its shape and bony prominences so a positive model can be produced for socket fabrication.

A rigid replica of the residual limb poured from the negative cast, which is then modified by adding or removing material to shape the socket for pressure tolerance and stability.

Deliberate modification of the positive model, adding plaster over pressure-tolerant areas and removing it over sensitive areas, to create a socket that loads the limb correctly.

A region of the residual limb that can bear load with less discomfort, such as the patellar tendon or the posterior calf, and is built up on the model to receive more socket pressure.

A region of the residual limb that tolerates little load, such as the tibial crest, fibular head, or distal tibia, and is relieved in the socket to prevent pain or skin breakdown.

A transtibial socket design that loads the patellar tendon, medial tibial flare, and posterior calf while relieving the tibial crest and fibular head, improving comfort and suspension.

A transtibial socket design that distributes load over the entire limb surface using a snug, hydrostatic fit, often with a gel liner, rather than concentrating force on selected areas.

A transfemoral socket design that encloses the ischial tuberosity and medial ramus within the socket brim, improving coronal stability and control of the residual femur.

An older transfemoral socket shape with a flat posterior wall and a narrow mediolateral dimension, relying on ischial seating rather than containment; it is now less common than ischial containment designs.

A flexible roll-on or suction sleeve worn against the skin inside the socket, cushioning the limb, managing shear, and often serving as part of the suspension system.

The mechanism that holds the prosthesis on the limb, such as suction, pin and lock, vacuum, cuff strap, or harness, chosen for limb shape, volume stability, and patient ability.

Adding or removing layers of prosthetic socks to compensate for daily or long-term changes in residual limb volume, keeping the socket fit secure without excessive pressure.

The initial setup of socket, knee, and foot relative to reference lines on the workbench before dynamic fitting, establishing a starting point for standing balance and gait.

Adjustment of the prosthesis while the patient stands and walks, tuning socket tilt, knee position, and foot placement to achieve stable, efficient, and comfortable gait.

An abnormal walking pattern such as vaulting, lateral lean, or excessive knee flexion, observed during follow-up to identify alignment, fit, or component problems needing correction.

The distal component that provides support, rollover, and shock absorption, ranging from solid-ankle cushioned heel to energy-storing or multiaxial designs selected for the patient's activity level.

The hand substitute on an upper-limb prosthesis, either a hook or a prosthetic hand, chosen for grip function, appearance, or task needs and operated by body power or electricity.

An upper-limb prosthesis operated by shoulder and cable harness movement, offering durable, lightweight function with proprioceptive feedback but requiring greater body effort.

An upper-limb prosthesis that senses electrical activity from residual muscles through electrodes and drives a motorized hand or wrist, allowing intuitive control without a harness.

Scheduled and as-needed visits after delivery to check fit, skin condition, alignment, component wear, and function, and to revise the prosthesis as the patient's body and needs change.

The professional duty to protect a patient's health information from unauthorized disclosure, sharing it only with those involved in care or as required by law or valid consent.

A situation in which a prosthetist's financial or personal interest could improperly influence clinical recommendations, which must be disclosed and managed to protect the patient's welfare.

The clinical record of assessment findings, measurements, fabrication steps, fitting outcomes, patient education, and follow-up, supporting continuity of care, billing accuracy, and legal defensibility.