The Thigh Corset: Its Effects on the Quadriceps Muscle and its Role in Prosthetic Suspension

The present study aims at evaluating the etiology of the frequently observed atro­ phy of the thigh in patients who use thigh corsets . 1 , 2 This was done on the basis of femoral nerve conduction studies and electro-myographic findings in the quadri­ ceps muscle. Measurements of thigh cir­ cumference were used to quantitate vol­ ume changes in the thigh. The purpose of the thigh corset is to dis­ tribute the weight-bearing surface area of the stump while suspending the below knee prosthesis. It also adds increased sen­ sory feedback and additional mediolateral stability. A commonly observed clinical finding among users of the corset is a de­ crease in the soft tissue bulge of the thigh. Whether this is the result of neuropathic or myopathic changes due to either the corset, the underlying disease process, or the re­ sult of disuse, has not been clearly defined.