UPMSP Artificial Limb & Organ Tech study plan

Label the bones and major joints of the upper and lower limb on a blank diagram from memory, including the scapula, humerus, radius, ulna, carpals, pelvis, femur, tibia, fibula, and tarsals.

Describe the structure and function of skeletal muscle, tendon, ligament, and cartilage, and explain how each behaves under tensile, compressive, and shear load.

Trace the path of the major nerves and vessels of the residual limb (sciatic/tibial/peroneal in the lower limb; median, ulnar, radial in the upper limb) and state which prosthetic socket pressures risk compressing them.

Explain the gait cycle phases and the muscle actions and joint ranges that drive them, so you can later connect anatomy to prosthetic alignment.

Measure a residual limb for a transtibial and a transradial socket: record circumferences at defined intervals, ML and AP diameters, and residual limb length using a tape and calipers.

Explain the purposes and sequence of casting: patient positioning, marking bony landmarks, applying casting sock and plaster wrap, and controlling wrap tension.

Identify and correct common casting faults such as bridging over the tibial crest, distal end over-lengthening, and uneven proximal trim lines.

Relate each measured landmark back to the underlying anatomy from week 1 and justify why the measurement matters for socket fit.

Convert a plaster negative into a positive model: fill, strip, and rectify the model to create reliefs, buildups, and pressure-tolerant versus pressure-sensitive zones.

Describe the fabrication sequence for a patellar-tendon-bearing transtibial socket and a quadrilateral or ischial-containment transfemoral socket, stating the design rationale for each.

Explain static and dynamic alignment: bench alignment, then adjustment of socket flexion, adduction, and foot placement for a transtibial prosthesis.

List the components of a lower limb prosthesis (socket, liner, suspension, pylon, foot) and state the function and trade-offs of each.

Fabricate or assemble an upper limb prosthesis: describe the difference between body-powered and myoelectric systems and the components of each (harness, cable, terminal device, electrodes, battery).

Select appropriate materials for a socket, liner, and suspension system and justify the choice using strength, weight, durability, and skin-contact requirements.

Explain the properties of common prosthetic materials: acrylic resin, polyester resin, carbon fibre, glass fibre, silicone, thermoplastic, and titanium/aluminium alloys.

Describe how material choice affects socket stiffness, weight, and heat dissipation, and how that influences patient comfort and compliance.

Explain the biomechanical principles of orthoses: three-point pressure, lever arms, and the control of a joint by an external device.

Describe the design and function of common orthoses (ankle-foot, knee-ankle-foot, spinal, wrist-hand) and state the condition each is used for.

Compare orthotic and prosthetic approaches to the same functional problem and explain when each is indicated.

Evaluate how an orthosis or prosthesis alters ground reaction force and joint loading during stance.

Describe the components of a prosthetic assessment: patient history, residual limb condition, range of motion, muscle strength, and functional status.

Explain the stages of gait training for a transtibial and transfemoral amputee, from parallel bars to community ambulation.

Identify common gait deviations (excessive knee flexion, vaulting, circumduction, lateral trunk lean, drop-off) and link each to a probable prosthetic or patient cause.

Describe outcome measures used in prosthetic rehabilitation and how they guide progression.

Demonstrate safe use of workshop tools: plaster saw, router, grinder, drill, and vacuum-forming equipment, including PPE and machine guarding.

Explain the hazards of plaster dust, resin fumes, and silica exposure and the controls (extraction, wet methods, respirators) that reduce them.

Read and produce a technical drawing of a prosthetic component: orthographic views, dimensions, tolerances, and section views.

Apply basic mechanics to a prosthetic problem: calculate forces on a pylon, moments at a joint, and stress in a socket wall under a stated load.

Describe the basic principles and examples of artificial organs and assistive devices, including their power source, control, and user interface.

Explain the role of assistive technology in restoring function and how a device is matched to a user's needs.

Apply professional ethics to prosthetic practice: informed consent, confidentiality, scope of practice, and honest communication about outcomes.

Practise clear communication with a patient or colleague: explain a prosthetic fitting decision in plain language and confirm understanding.