Prosthetic feet: A systematic review of types, design, and characteristics

The prosthetics for lower limb amputees consist of several components: socket, knee, shank, adapter, and prosthetic foot. Prosthetic feet are integrated artificial parts that are designed to perform one or more tasks like the ankle-foot system of human beings. There are different types of prosthetic feet therefore many of their lower limb amputees and specialists suffer from difficulty choosing the appropriate foot, and factors must be considered when selecting the right foot, including the level of amputation, the work of the amputee, age and weight, cost and size of the foot. The prosthetic feet are classified according to the structure in general, into feet with an articulate and feet that are not articulated. Generally, traditional prosthetic feet are designed to perform walking tasks. Most amputees lose their ability of running which in turn led to losing traits of their body in practicing sturdy sports. It is worthy to mention that the amputation not only restricts most physical activities because of losing the suitable prosthetic even in amputees with extremely self-confidence but also causes a considerable loss in self-respect and self-confidence for amputees. Many inspections and characteristics can help in selecting the appropriate foot, including the dorsiflexion of the foot, eversion, the energy of return, the life and impact strength of the foot. This study aims to help in choosing the appropriate prosthetic foot for the amputee and according to the requirements.