Materials for exoskeletal orthotic and prosthetic systems

Orthopedic technologies encompass all devices applied externally to the user’s body to substitute a missing limb (prosthesis) or to replace a missing function (orthosis). Metals, wood, leather, fabrics, thermoplastics, thermosetting composites, foamed plastics, and elastomers are the principle materials mostly used in current orthopedic industry. Due to the fabrication ability of customized sophisticated devices, 3D printing has the potential to facilitate the design of the orthopedic devices. The final choice for material selection will rely on the local availability of materials, technical expertise of orthotist/prosthetist, and expected function for individual patient. The interplay of materials science and processing techniques will reveal new insights, and therefore consistent development and enhancement of materials guarantees the achievements of forthcoming expectations in orthotic and prosthetics industry.