Introduction

Early prosthetic fitting plays a critical role in recovery for individuals with upper limb amputations. However, many patients miss the optimal “Golden Period” — the first month after amputation — due to long approval times and custom fabrication delays.
A new study from the Medical University of Vienna introduces the BeneFit socket, a 3D-printed, adjustable temporary socket for transradial prostheses designed to speed up fitting and improve comfort during early rehabilitation.

Key Findings

  • Adjustable fit: The BeneFit socket can change in both diameter and length, making it adaptable to different limb shapes and stages of healing.
  • Lightweight and breathable: Rated highly by users for ease of donning/doffing and breathability, key factors for comfort and daily wear.
  • Supports early training: Enables faster fitting and training during the Golden Period, which is linked to better long-term prosthetic acceptance.
  • 3D-printed innovation: Combines a rigid outer shell with a soft, biocompatible inner layer using advanced materials and open-source 3D files.
  • Promising feedback: Both amputees and clinicians found the design practical and user-friendly, though smaller versions are needed for wider clinical use.

Why It Matters

The BeneFit socket could mark a step forward in upper limb prosthetics, addressing one of the biggest challenges in rehabilitation — delayed prosthetic fitting.
By providing a temporary, adjustable, and affordable solution, clinicians may soon be able to start prosthetic training sooner, improving patient confidence, independence, and long-term success.

Conclusion

The BeneFit adjustable socket offers a promising approach for early prosthetic fitting and research use. With further refinement, it could help more amputees regain function faster and with greater comfort.
If you or someone you know has experienced an upper limb amputation, talk to your prosthetist about early fitting options and emerging technologies like the BeneFit socket.

📚 Reference

Baumgartner B, Vujaklija I, Aszmann OC, Boesendorfer A, Kaniusas E, Sturma A.
Design, construction, and evaluation of the BeneFit socket: An adjustable temporary socket for a transradial prosthesis.
Prosthetics and Orthotics International. 2025;49(5):515–522.
doi:10.1097/PXR.0000000000000379