Getting the right fit of prosthetic socket is a key and recurring issue for amputees and a bespoke socket design is very much the focus of prosthetists to ensure even distribution of forces over as large a surface area as possible. Ill-fitting sockets can cause skin breakdown, excessive sweating, irritation and pressure points which will contribute to pain and discomfort.
New research published on 22 August 2025 developed by Radii Devices and the University of Southampton follows a study which used historic prosthetic design data in its software to “identify trends between different patient characteristics, such as the shape and size of the residual limb, and successful socket shapes”. The resulting personalised design recommendation is based on features that have been successful for similar patients.
This has been tested at 3 NHS prosthetics rehabilitation centres and the comfort scores in below knee amputees were comparable with traditionally designed sockets.
This development is not intended to replace the skill and existing tools that prosthetists have when creating sockets but instead to improve patient outcomes in maximising comfort and reducing the risk of poorly fitted sockets impacting rehabilitation. Although Computer Aided Design (CAD) are normally used in the development of sockets, this reflects only the outside shape of a residual limb, so it is then up to the prosthetist to identify issues such as bone spurs and neuromas to avoid pain and damage to these areas. The intention is that this data driven socket design will save time by giving them an informed base point to work from. It will mean that all amputees will benefit from the combined data set of prosthetists in achieving the right socket fit.
The Independent reports on 22 August 2025 that this new software in prosthetists hands might reduce NHS waiting lists by 50% by getting the right socket fit more quickly by reducing design time and clinic fitting visits by half.
We know that in amputation claims infection, pain and discomfort are a frequent problem for amputees together with the knock-on impact on mobility and independence, and therefore the need for extra support. Improving the chances of getting an early comfortably fitting socket must be better for amputees.
We have no information as to the cost and availability of this technology but the trial concluded with work underway to incorporate these EG (evidence generated) sockets into existing Computer Aided Socket Design (CASD) software so they can form a digital starting point for modification by expert prosthetists at the fitting. The cost would appear to be minimal since it will be incorporated in existing CASD programme - and therefore the availability widespread. Especially since this should be available to NHS patients, rather than only at specialist private prosthetics centres, this can only be good news for amputees.
As ever, our Amputation Technical Unit will keep a close eye on developments.
