Measuring Residual Limb Skin Temperatures at the Skin-Prosthesis Interface

Within the prosthesis, the residual limb is often subjected to a hot and moist environment which is both uncomfortable and potentially harmful. Many amputees have expressed their frustration with this situation, and dermatological studies have shown how this environment can compromise the skin health of the residual limb. Despite this, designs to reduce the residual limb skin temperature have received little or no attention. The purpose of this article is to describe a relatively straightforward technique for measuring the temperature at the skin-prosthesis interface. This is an important step towards creating a more comfortable and innocuous prosthesis.