Abduction —
The movement of a body part away from the middle of the body.
Adduction —
The movement of a body part toward the middle of the body.
Ambulation —
The action of walking or moving.
Amputation —
A surgical procedure in which a body part is removed because it no longer has a use or is harmful to one’s health.
Bulbous –
Indicates that the residual limb is bigger at the bottom than at the top.
Bumper —
A resistance tool or extension device placed in a knee or ankle component.
CO –
Stands for ‘certified orthotist.’ Indicated the person has passed the certification standards of The American Board of Certification in Orthotics & Prosthetics.
Complete Amputation —
Indicates that the body part has been completely severed.
Congenital Amputation —
Occurs to a fetus in the womb when fibrous bands tightly wrap around and sever the body part.
CP —
Stands for ‘certified prosthetis.’ Indicates the person has passed the certification standards of The American Board of Certification in Orthotics & Prosthetics.
CPO –
Stands for ‘certified prosthetist/orthotist.’ Indicated the person has passed the certification standards of The American Board of Certification in Orthotics & Prosthetics
Doffing –
Removal of the prosthesis.
Donning –
Application of the prosthesis.
Gait Training —
The method of learning to walk with a prosthesis.
Hybrid Prosthesis —
A prosthesis that combines two types of control in the same prosthesis.
Nylon Sheath —
A sock worn on the residual limb to prevent perspiration and add comfort.
Orthosis –
A custom support device or brace used to correct a deformity, relieve pain and improve function.
Orthotics –
A sector of medicine which focuses on the application and design of orthoses.
Orthotist –
A healthcare professional who designs, creates and fits custom orthoses.
Partial Amputation —
Indicates that most of the body part has been severed but is still attached.
Prosthesis —
A device that takes the place of the amputated body part.
Prosthetics –
The branch of medicine which designs and creates prosthesis.
Prosthetic Sock –
A custom sock worn on the residual limb to reduce friction between the limb and the prosthesis.
Prosthetist –
Person who measures, designs and fabricates prosthesis.
Pylon –
Pipe-like device which connects the prosthetic socket to the foot/ankle components.
Socket –
The part of the prosthesis that touches the residual limb.
Stump —
Term used to refer to the residual limb after an amputation.
Transfemoral Prosthesis —
Replaces a leg amputated above the knee.
Transradial Prosthesis —
Replaces an arm amputated below the elbow.
Transhumeral Prosthesis –
Replaces an arm amputated above the elbow.
Transtibial Prosthesis —
Replaces a leg amputated below the knee.
