Prosthetics

Symes prostheses have been developed for amputations at the ankle, where the stump is usually very large and rounded. This makes the suspension much easier to design for.

Following an ankle disarticulate amputation, the end of the stump can take a lot more load than a usual transtibial amputation stump. However, it is still necessary to shape the upper part of the socket in order to ensure that a considerable share of the load can be taken by the knee while standing or walking. This type of amputation is not that commonly seen.

It is a very practical amputation as the amputee is left with a long residual that gives good control and suspension. The down side is that you are limited in the choice of feet, as there is little space to fit a prosthetic foot. One is also very limited to create a particularly appealingcosmetic looking prosthesis when using a Symes socketof with a bulbous end.