When the foot is inset in a prosthetic socket, where does the pressure increase?

When the foot is inset in a prosthetic socket, it means that the foot is positioned closer to the midline of the body compared to the socket. This adjustment leads to changes in how forces are distributed throughout the residual limb.

The increase in pressure primarily occurs in the medial-proximal area of the socket. This happens because as the foot is moved medial, it creates a lever effect where the weight-bearing forces are transferred more towards the medial side of the limb. Consequently, the residual limb experiences higher pressure in the area that is proximal and medial relative to the socket.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial for practitioners who design prosthetics, as improper distribution of pressure can lead to discomfort or skin breakdown. It highlights the importance of proper alignment and fitting techniques in prosthetic design to ensure even load distribution and to properly accommodate the biomechanics of the individual wearer.