Empowering limb difference: Making sports accessible for all

One in 5 people have a disability, equating to 1 billion people worldwide and ~15 million people in the UK. Although, there are a wide range of disabilities, people with disabilities are considered the biggest minority on Earth. Research has shown those with a disability are twice as likely to be physically inactive (43%), compared with those without one (23%). This project focuses on people with a limb difference, which has a growing community worldwide, with 3.4 million in the UK. However, prostheses can improve their independence, inclusion and quality of life, especially if devices meet users’ needs and expectations. Even though current commercial prostheses, especially for upper limb differences, are typically general-purpose use and allow activities of daily living to be achieved. Specialist tasks, such as sporting activities, are not easily achievable, if at all, using these devices. Additionally, there is limited accessible equipment, with some sports inaccessible.

This project aims to co-develop assistive technology to allow people with a limb difference to partake in sporting activities that they currently cannot. Using a user centred design approach, leads to co-creation, with their needs and expectations being met. This will include co-creating specialist/adapted equipment, for example a power assisted adapted rowing boat for a quadruple amputee to solo row in a world first. Additionally, prosthetic limbs including the interface with the residual limb (the socket/linear), will be co-produced. For example, to allow a Paralympian to row, who currently cannot keep their socket securely on their residual limb. This will build up previous research, utilising smartphone technology to capture the residual limb (currently an MRC IAA).

One in five people worldwide live with a disability, and for those with a limb difference, prosthetic devices can play a vital role in improving independence, inclusion, and quality of life. However, most prostheses are designed for everyday tasks and often do not support specialist activities like sport. This project works directly with people with limb differences to design and create adapted prosthetic devices and equipment that meet their specific needs. Examples include developing a rowing boat that a quadruple amputee can row independently, and designing sockets that allow Paralympians to compete in sports they currently cannot. By involving users at every stage, the project ensures that new technologies are not only innovative, but also practical, accessible, and life-changing.