Connecting components: adapters and pylons
Intermediate parts that connect the socket to the knee and foot components and enable alignment, load transfer and height adjustment.
What are connecting components?
A prosthetic leg consists of main components such as the socket, the knee (in above-knee applications) and the prosthetic foot, as well as intermediate elements that connect these parts to each other. These connecting components, known as adapters and pylons, securely connect the socket to the knee and foot components and make it possible to set the height and alignment of the prosthesis and transfer load.
Although these parts are often not noticeable from the outside, they are decisive for the prosthesis to work in a balanced and safe way as a whole. Choosing suitable parts and correct alignment directly affect comfort and gait quality.
What is a pylon (load-bearing tube)?
A pylon is the load-bearing intermediate element located between the socket and the prosthetic foot (or knee); it is usually in the form of a cylindrical tube. It carries body weight and, by providing the distance between components, makes it possible for the prosthesis to be the right height for the person.
Pylons are usually made of lightweight and durable materials (for example aluminum, titanium or carbon fiber). The choice of material and structure is determined by taking into account the person's weight, activity level and durability requirements.
- Transfers body weight from the socket to the foot/knee
- Makes it possible to adjust the height of the prosthesis
- Is made of lightweight and durable materials
Adapters and their types
Adapters are the parts that connect the socket, pylon, knee and foot components to each other and allow the alignment between them to be adjusted. Different types of adapters are used for different tasks. Which adapters are needed is determined according to the structure of the prosthesis and the person's needs.
- Connection (pyramid) adapters: Connect components to each other with a standard interface.
- Alignment adapters: Allow fine adjustment of the angle and position between components.
- Rotation adapters: May help make rotational movement of the leg easier in certain situations.
- Shock/torque-absorbing adapters: Aim to soften the impacts and rotational forces generated during the step.
What do connecting components do?
Connection
Securely connect the socket, knee and foot components to each other with a standard interface.
Alignment
Allow individual fine adjustment of the angle and position between components.
Load transfer
Transfer body weight evenly from the socket to the lower components.
Height adjustment
Using the pylon, allow the prosthesis to be configured at the right height for the person.
The importance of alignment
Alignment is the process of adjusting the position of the prosthetic components relative to each other. Correct alignment is decisive for balanced standing, smooth walking and appropriate transfer of load to the residual limb. Connecting components make it possible to carry out these fine adjustments.
Alignment is carried out during the trial stage and assessed together with the person's feedback. Over time, as habits of use and needs change, the alignment may need to be reviewed again.
Frequently asked questions
Does every prosthetic leg have an adapter and pylon?
The number and type of connecting components vary according to the structure of the prosthesis and the amputation level. Which parts are needed is determined by the specialist team.
Are these parts visible from the outside?
Most of the time they remain under the cosmetic cover and are not noticeable from the outside; however, they play an important role in the balanced functioning of the prosthesis.
Can the alignment change later?
Yes. As habits of use and needs change, the alignment may need to be reassessed; these checks are carried out by the practitioner.
This content is for informational purposes; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Applications are carried out at our licensed center locations in line with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.
