Thane Prosthetics - Independent Prosthetist Consultants providing Prosthetic and Rehabilitation services in Cyprus

Common Terms

Being familiar with some of the commonly used terms in the discussion of and literature on amputation is quite helpful. This is a basic list of terms for your information, and we are happy to provide you with further clarification about these or other terms if you require it.

AK - Above the knee -  (SeeTrans Famoral)

Alignment - Position of a prosthetic socket in relation to foot and knee

Amputation - Removal of all or part of a limb due to infection, tumor, disease or trauma

Amputee - A person who has had all or part of a limb removed / amputated or is born without a limb

Amputation (Traumatic) - A spontaneous removal of a limb for example as a result of an accident

Bilateral - Bi means both, meaning both sides

BE - Below elbow - (SeeTrans Radial)

BK - Below the knee - (SeeTrans Tibial)

Carbon Fibre - Non-stretch carbon fabric used to reinforce lightweight composite resin structures, such as prosthetic components and sockets

Claudication - Pain in the limb upon exertion - due to poor circulation

Congenital limb deficiency - When all or parts of limb/s do not develop normally in the womb or are missing

CP - Certified Prosthetist