"True progress is not just doing things better but making them possible for everyone." This phrase by Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who overcame physical challenges with determination, reminds us that the history of orthopedic prostheses is much more than technological advances.
Over the centuries, prostheses have evolved, offering solutions that not only replace what was lost but also enable people to move forward.
Today, at ¡Pura Más!, we explore orthopedic prostheses.
Ancient origins and early developments
The history of orthopedic prostheses dates back to ancient civilizations, where the first attempts to replace lost limbs began to emerge. The earliest records of prostheses are found in Ancient Egypt around 1500 BCE, where artifacts like the famous wooden toe found on a mummy have been discovered. These prostheses were designed not only for physical function but also for aesthetic and spiritual purposes, as Egyptian beliefs held that the body needed to be whole for the afterlife.
Middle Ages and Renaissance: mechanical advances
During the Middle Ages, progress in prosthetics was slow due to minimal medical and technical advancements. However, improvements were seen in designs like those for knights injured in combat. A notable example is Götz von Berlichingen, a 16th-century German knight, who used an articulated iron hand that allowed him to wield his sword and perform basic tasks, demonstrating advancements in prosthetic mechanics.
Industrial Revolution: advances in materials and design
The 19th-century Industrial Revolution marked a turning point in the evolution of orthopedic prostheses. Advances in material technology and mass production enabled the creation of lighter, functional, and affordable prostheses. The introduction of materials like vulcanized rubber, aluminum, and steel allowed for more durable and user-friendly devices.
Modern Era: technology and bioengineering
In the mid-20th century, prosthetic evolution reached new heights with the integration of technology and bioengineering. Myoelectric prostheses, introduced in the 1960s, were a milestone in prosthetic control, using electrical signals from residual muscles to control prosthetic movement with unprecedented precision and control.
The development of biocompatible materials like titanium, combined with silicone for aesthetics, made prostheses lighter, more durable, and less likely to cause adverse reactions. Robotic joints in advanced prosthetics, such as computerized knees, now allow users almost natural mobility with real-time movement adjustments.
Bionics and intelligent prosthetics
Advances in biomechanics and artificial intelligence have brought prosthetics to a new level. Bionic prostheses, which use sensor technology and actuators to mimic natural human movement, have revolutionized orthopedics. These devices detect neurological or electromyographic signals from the user to generate coordinated and fluid movements, significantly improving the quality of life for amputees.
Modern importance
One of the most significant advancements in the modern world is the customization of prostheses. With 3D printing, devices can now be tailored to the needs and anatomical characteristics of each user. This technology has democratized access to prosthetics, especially in developing countries where customized prosthetics were previously prohibitively expensive.
Technology and the future of prosthetics
In the modern world, prosthetics are no longer just devices to restore basic mobility. With advanced technology, prosthetics now offer users abilities beyond normal human capacities. Examples include robotic exoskeletons, which combine orthopedic prostheses with motor assistance technology to enable people with paralysis to walk again.
The future of prosthetics will likely involve brain-computer interfaces, where prosthetics integrate directly with the user's nervous system, allowing for much more intuitive and natural control. Research in tissue regeneration also explores the possibility of incorporating living tissue into prosthetics in the future.
This article is developed by Pura+, a global leader in orthopedics, physiotherapy, and sports.
Beybies, Pura+, and NrgyBlast belong to Avimex de Colombia SAS. All products are certified, comply with current health standards, and are manufactured under the strictest international standards. To purchase our products, visit our online shop. All purchases are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee or refund.
