Mapping user needs for a functional prosthetic knee joint: A sociocultural perspective

About this project

The aim of this project is to improve the lives of lower limb amputees, and their families and communities. The specific objective will be to understand the specific needs of amputees in relation to lower limb prostheses.

80% of the world's amputees do not have access to modern prosthetics. For amputees in low-resource settings, modern prosthetics are prohibitively expensive. Existing, low-cost prostheses present significant limitations to mobility as they typically use single-axis knee joints—similar to a door hinge. While walking, particularly on rough terrain, single-axis knee joints are unstable and can buckle, leading to a sudden and dangerous loss of balance. 

Lead researcher

Dr Aoife Healy

Associate Professor

Aoife is a researcher within the Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies. Her area of research is clinical biomechanics, with a focus on mobility assistive technology, diabetic footwear, gait analysis and plantar pressure measurement.

Aoife's profile

Associated researcher

Professor Nachiappan Chockalingam

Professor Of Clinical Biomechanics

As Professor of Clinical Biomechanics, I direct the Movement Analysis Laboratory and lead the biomechanics team and research at Staffordshire University. I am also an Affiliate Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta

Nachiappan's profile

Collaborators

In collaboration with Mobility India.

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021