Now, 'second skin' that prevents dangerous sores in amputees

Scientists have developed a "second skin", which is a new type of pressure sensor, that prevents amputees from developing sores from rubbing against their artificial limbs.

The sensors, developed by Southampton University in partnership with the prosthetics firm Blatchford may be also be used for wheelchair-users and those confined to bed, if the work is successful, the BBC reported.

Joe McCarthy, who does prosthetic research and development at Blatchford, said that the next stage will be to develop some sort of system to adjust the fit of the socket so they will have a system that can react if the person feels uncomfortable with the fit.

The researchers say the sensors may be available to NHS patients in as little as three years. Dr Jiang believes this technology may have many more uses which could prevent pain, infections and even amputations.

Liudi Jiang from the University of Southampton said that this is a platform technology and they envisage it could be applicable in many other healthcare sectors such as smart shoe insoles for people with diabetes, or wheelchairs or mattresses, wherever the body rubs.