How Magnets Are Used In Prosthetics
Magnets are in so many items that we use today, that we often do not even realize it. Much like screws and bolts, magnets have become a typical component in various machinery, technology and other devices. A prosthetic, is just one example of a device in which you’ll likely find magnets. Believe it or not, they are commonly used in certain types of prosthetics, both for limb mobility and for cosmetic purposes. More often though, they are used to secure facial prosthetics in place.
Photo by Doug[/caption]
The use of magnets in prosthetics isn’t just exclusive to the medical field either. In fact, some of the ghoulish creatures, monsters and plain, odd-looking characters that you have seen on the big screen may not have been possible without the help of prosthetics and magnets. A recent example of this is in the movie Maleficent. Angelina Jolie became the infamous horned character with the help of prosthetics for her cheeks and horns. The heavy horns managed to stay attached to her head with the help of high powered magnets.
Whether in movies or medicine, magnetism plays a key role in the attachment and detachment of some prosthetics. Can you think of some other ways or examples in which magnets are used in prosthetics? If so, share your ideas with us in the comments!
Magnets and Medicine: Prosthetics
During and after World War I, an American sculptor named Anna Coleman Ladd created facial prosthetics for men that had suffered facial injuries in the war. Back then she would create molds of the veterans’ faces and attach facial prosthetics with wires, ribbons or eyeglasses. Now, similar facial prosthetics are attached with implants or magnets. Prosthetics are also created with a multitude of materials and methods. One of the most popular and cost-effective ways currently is 3D printing. In August of this year, a Victoria University student created a 3D printed prosthetic nose and attached it with a system of magnetic implants.Magnets, Movies and Prosthetics
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Photo by Doug[/caption]
The use of magnets in prosthetics isn’t just exclusive to the medical field either. In fact, some of the ghoulish creatures, monsters and plain, odd-looking characters that you have seen on the big screen may not have been possible without the help of prosthetics and magnets. A recent example of this is in the movie Maleficent. Angelina Jolie became the infamous horned character with the help of prosthetics for her cheeks and horns. The heavy horns managed to stay attached to her head with the help of high powered magnets.
Whether in movies or medicine, magnetism plays a key role in the attachment and detachment of some prosthetics. Can you think of some other ways or examples in which magnets are used in prosthetics? If so, share your ideas with us in the comments!