Egyptian mummies wore prosthetic thumbs

Two artificial big toe on his feet, one of which was opened on foot of an ancient Egyptian mummy are the first functional prostheses of the world, according to a survey. Amazingly realistic finger made from Egyptian papier-mache - linen, glue and plaster is stored in the collection "Greve Chester" and the other prosthesis - foot three-piece sculpted expert in wood and leather, is on display in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo .
Unusual body parts date back to 600 BC on... And are older than Rome "leg of Capua," made 300 years BC. Until now it was thought to be the oldest human prosthesis writes. "Daily Mail".
The study, conducted by Dr Dzhaki Finch from Manchester University, two volunteers lost their right thumbs on their feet, tried Egyptian artifacts and found them very comfortable.
"To be classified as a true prosthesis, an artificial body part must meet several criteria - said Dr. Finch in front of the prestigious journal" Lancet ". - First, the material from which it is made, must withstand the weight and movement of the body and does not crack and break during use. The proportions are also important, and type it must be sufficiently authentic to be acceptable for both the user and the people around him. The prosthesis must be kept clean, so it must be easy download and installation. The most important thing however is to help walking. "
"Toe brings about 40% by weight of the body and is responsible for pushing him forward, although people who have lost easily adapt - she added. - To determine the level of functioning [the prosthesis], we apply techniques analysis of the course, which include integrated cameras and devices for measuring the pressure placed on the laboratory path. "
Volunteers should wear artificial fingers with replicas of real Egyptian sandals. Nobody expected them to feel especially comfortable, but to everyone's surprise, one participant started to go very well with both ancient dentures. Both volunteers found the finger of Cairo particularly handy.
The thumb of "Greve Chester" shows traces of regular use, while Cairo is preserved, but also simplified as a form.
"The wear of thumb of" Greve Chester "and key elements of making this Cairo me think that both dentures were worn by their owners, not just attached to their feet in the mummification of religious or ritualistic reasons stated Dr. Finch. - If this is so, the first success in this branch of medicine have deserved to recognize the ancient Egyptians. "

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