How to Make a Prosthetic Leg

Series Summary

An artificial limb is a kind of prosthesis that is used in place of a missing extremity, such as an arm or leg. The type of artificial limb used is determined primarily by the extent of an amputation or loss and location of a missing extremity. Artificial limbs may be needed for a variety of reasons, including disease, accidents, and congenital defects. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the production of artificial limbs. New plastics and other materials, such as carbon fiber, have allowed artificial limbs to be stronger and lighter, thus reducing the amount of energy needed to use the limb. Additional materials have allowed artificial limbs to look much more realistic as well, which is important to transradial and transhumeral amputees because they are more likely to have an exposed artificial limb.

If you have a temporary socket for a prosthetic limb, you can fabricate a prosthetic leg with plaster, carbon fiber, and nylon. In this free video series, our expert will show you how to make a prosthetic leg with step-by-step instructions, from what tools you need, to pouring plaster, laying carbon fiber, lamination, and final assembly. You'll learn how to apply nylon layers, how to sand a prosthesis socket, how to mix lamination, and also how to seal a prosthetic cast. With the proper tools, techniques, and work ethic, these tips will make the construction of a prosthetic limb a less expensive process.