When addressing residual limb pain that causes lateral leaning, what should be evaluated?

When addressing residual limb pain that causes lateral leaning, evaluating the socket fit is critical. The socket is the interface between the prosthesis and the residual limb, and an improper fit can lead to pressure points, pain, and malalignment.

A well-designed socket should distribute forces evenly across the residual limb. If the socket is either too tight or too loose, it can cause discomfort and lead to compensatory postures such as lateral leaning. This compensatory movement is an attempt to avoid pain associated with the poorly fitting socket. Therefore, assessing and ensuring the socket fits correctly can alleviate residual limb pain and help the user maintain a proper gait without leaning to one side.

Foot alignment, suspension tension, and knee flexion are important aspects of prosthetic fitting but are secondary to ensuring that the socket properly accommodates the residual limb. If the socket fit is inadequate, adjustments in those other areas might not be effective in resolving the fundamental issue of pain and misalignment prompted by a poor socket fit.