Prosthetic Course

Lesson 1 • Causes and Levels of Amputation

Examines vascular, traumatic, oncological, and congenital causes of limb loss. Introduces standard amputation level classifications used throughout the course.

Lesson 2 • Introduction to Prosthetic Science

Covers the history, scope, and purpose of prosthetics as a clinical discipline. Establishes context for all subsequent technical and patient-care content.

Lesson 3 • Musculoskeletal Anatomy Review

Reviews bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues of the upper and lower extremities. Provides anatomical vocabulary essential for residual limb assessment.

Lesson 4 • Biomechanical Principles for Prosthetics

Introduces forces, moments, and gait mechanics as applied to prosthetic design. Students gain the physics framework needed to evaluate component selection.

Lesson 1 • Prosthetic Prescription Rationale

Synthesizes assessment findings into evidence-based prosthetic prescriptions. Students practice matching patient profiles to appropriate device categories.

Lesson 2 • Patient History and Functional Goals

Teaches structured intake interviewing to capture medical history, activity level, and goals. Links patient-reported data to prosthetic candidacy decisions.

Lesson 3 • Functional Outcome Measures

Presents standardized tools for measuring mobility, balance, and quality of life. Outcome data benchmarks progress and supports clinical decision-making.

Lesson 4 • Residual Limb Physical Examination

Covers palpation, volume measurement, skin integrity assessment, and range-of-motion testing. These findings directly determine socket design and suspension choices.

Lesson 1 • Structural Materials Overview

Examines metals, thermoplastics, thermosets, and composites used in prosthetic fabrication. Material properties are linked to clinical performance requirements.

Lesson 2 • Suspension and Interface Systems

Covers pin-lock, suction, elevated vacuum, and lanyard suspension methods. Interface liners and their material properties are matched to skin and volume needs.

Lesson 3 • Prosthetic Feet and Ankle Systems

Covers SACH, dynamic-response, multiaxial, and microprocessor-controlled foot designs. Students match foot category to patient activity level and terrain demands.

Lesson 4 • Knee and Hip Prosthetic Components

Introduces mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and microprocessor knee units and hip joints. Component mechanics are tied to transfemoral and hip-disarticulation fitting.

Lesson 1 • Casting and Impression Methods

Teaches plaster, fiberglass, and digital scanning techniques for capturing residual limb shape. Accurate impressions are the foundation of well-fitting sockets.

Lesson 2 • Thermoplastic Socket Fabrication

Demonstrates vacuum-forming and draping of thermoplastic sheets over rectified models. Students produce check sockets for trial fitting and alignment.

Lesson 3 • Lamination and Composite Fabrication

Introduces resin systems, fiber layups, and vacuum lamination for definitive socket production. Structural integrity and cosmetic finish are evaluated against clinical standards.

Lesson 4 • Upper Extremity Socket Fabrication

Applies casting and fabrication principles to transradial and transhumeral socket designs. Harness attachment points and trim lines are specific to upper limb biomechanics.

Lesson 1 • Principles of Prosthetic Alignment

Defines bench, static, and dynamic alignment phases and their sequential relationship. Establishes the alignment framework applied across all amputation levels.

Lesson 2 • Transtibial Alignment Procedures

Covers socket flexion angle, foot placement, and mediolateral positioning for below-knee prostheses. Alignment adjustments are linked to observed gait deviations.

Lesson 3 • Upper Extremity Fitting Procedures

Covers harness fit, control cable tension, and electrode placement for body-powered and myoelectric systems. Proper fit enables reliable terminal device operation.

Lesson 4 • Fit Verification and Patient Feedback

Teaches systematic socket fit checks using pressure mapping, visual inspection, and patient-reported comfort. Findings drive iterative adjustments before final delivery.

Lesson 1 • Instrumented Gait Analysis Tools

Introduces force plates, motion capture, and wearable sensors for quantitative gait assessment. Data interpretation guides precision alignment and component adjustments.

Lesson 2 • Normal Gait Cycle Review

Reviews stance and swing phases, joint kinematics, and muscle activity during normal walking. Establishes the baseline against which prosthetic gait is compared.

Lesson 3 • Observational Gait Analysis

Teaches systematic visual observation of prosthetic gait from anterior, posterior, and lateral views. Students use structured forms to record and classify deviations.

Lesson 4 • Transfemoral Gait Deviations

Covers circumduction, vaulting, hip hiking, and terminal swing impact in transfemoral prosthetic gait. Corrections address alignment, knee unit settings, and socket fit.

Lesson 1 • Upper Extremity Prosthetic Training

Develops terminal device operation, bimanual task performance, and activity-specific training for upper limb users. Training follows a structured preprosthetic-to-functional sequence.

Lesson 2 • Donning and Doffing Training

Teaches step-by-step donning and doffing procedures for various suspension systems. Correct technique prevents skin injury and maintains suspension integrity.

Lesson 3 • Residual Limb Conditioning

Covers desensitization, shaping, and strengthening exercises to prepare the residual limb for prosthetic use. Conditioning reduces skin breakdown and improves socket tolerance.

Lesson 4 • Functional Mobility Training

Progresses patients from parallel bar walking to community ambulation and stair negotiation. Training tasks are graded to match the patient's functional classification.

Lesson 1 • Myoelectric and Bionic Upper Limb Systems

Examines advanced myoelectric control strategies, pattern recognition, and multi-articulating hands. Students configure electrode sites and train patients in advanced grip modes.

Lesson 2 • Complex Case Management Strategies

Applies clinical reasoning to bilateral amputees, high-level amputations, and patients with comorbidities. Students develop individualized management plans for challenging cases.

Lesson 3 • Osseointegration and Implant Prosthetics

Introduces transcutaneous osseointegrated implants as an alternative to socket-based fitting. Students understand surgical phases, loading protocols, and clinical monitoring.

Lesson 4 • Long-Term Follow-Up and Volume Management

Establishes protocols for scheduled follow-up, socket replacement timelines, and residual limb volume monitoring. Proactive management prevents functional decline.