Design and development of universal leg prostheses with size adjustment using polylactic acid (PLA)

The history of leg prosthetics is a journey of continuous innovation and progress. In Mexico, according to INEGI (2015), there are 780,000 people with amputations; of the 75,000 amputees, only 10% have a prosthesis, and 7% do not know how to use it. The leading cause is Type 2 diabetes. Current prosthetics vary in cost and technology, ranging from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Losing a limb affects mobility and psychological, social, and physical well-being. Unlike the rudimentary ones of the past, modern prosthetics are more advanced and functional. This study, with 50 participants, analyzes various anthropometric measurements to design an adjustable universal prosthesis, improving the quality of life for amputees through an interdisciplinary approach combining biomechanical analysis, material evaluation, and types of prosthetics. The results highlight the importance of considering gender for an optimal fit.