Self-reported socket comfort, mobility, and balance-confidence of individuals with transtibial amputation using pinlock vs suction suspension.

This was a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data, not a randomized trial, so participants were not assigned to a suspension type by the researchers. The study could not control for socket fit quality or residual limb volume fluctuations, which are known to affect comfort. Findings are limited to community-ambulators with unilateral transtibial amputation who are established prosthesis users. The specific criteria used by prosthetists to prescribe suspension systems were unknown, introducing potential selection bias.

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Do not assume that switching to suction suspension will improve a patient's mobility or balance-confidence. The study found no difference in these outcomes between suction and pinlock systems; the benefit was limited to socket comfort.