How Prosthetics Revolutionized Medical Technology

Prosthetics have ultimately revolutionized medical technology. A prosthesis is an artificial limb which substitutes a body’s natural limbs such as hands, arms, feet, and legs. In other cases, prosthesis can be utilized throughout other areas of the human body such as the eyes, knees, teeth, and joints which are commonly constructed for the elderly of today due to their fragile bones. Some prosthesis vary from being conveniently removable while others are permanently attached to one’s body. Beginning from simplistic ideas such peg legs composed of wood, which were commonly used by many due to their ability of being lightweight and easily maneuverable. The prosthetics of today have become incredibly realistic because of their capability to mimic the movement and function of natural

Knights received a prosthesis from the blacksmith who had made his suit of armor. These prosthesis had little movement and function and were only made for the purpose of concealing the severed limb, which in that era was a statement of embarrassment. Other than knights, only the wealthy were granted to be suited for a prosthesis.

When the Renaissance had come along, the field of medical technology had been completely revolutionized, as well as other areas such as art, architecture, and philosophy. The conventional use of metal and wood to construct prosthesis had been completely altered. The use of metals such as iron, copper, steel, and wood were commonly used in the making. Amroise Paré, a French army doctor and barber, is credited for some of the most influential advancements in prosthetic history and founder of modern amputation surgeries. Throughout his lifetime, Paré invented prosthetic legs that incorporated features knees with locking capability and harnesses that could be attached to the body. His visions and creations of prosthetics led to the modern understanding of artificial limbs