A new type of prosthetic limb, which has been developed by researchers at a hospital in the West Midlands, could mark a profound change in the way amputees are treated.

The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham designed the new artificial limb to prevent ‘rubbing, soreness and sweating’ that currently causes a great deal of discomfort for lower limb prosthesis users.

The new device is fitted by inserting a metal socket into the bone of a patient so a prosthetic limb can be clipped on. As part of a clinical trial, 16 patients have had the new prosthetic limb fitted, with one saying that “it means I can walk for miles each day.”

Imogen Wetton, a serious injury solicitor at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “We work closely with the Limbless Association and with clients who have undergone amputations and understand the challenges posed for both amputees and their families.

“For many amputees, adjusting to life after losing a limb is difficult and prosthetic limbs can be uncomfortable and even painful.

“Any improvements to prosthesis technology can have a significant impact on the quality of life for an amputee. While the fact that this has reached the stage of clinical trials is exciting, this is a small clinical trial. Sometimes patients can experience problems, for example with infections.

“It is, nevertheless, good to see technology like this being progressed and we will be watching developments closely together with our medical experts to see if it is something that can be made available to our clients in the future.”