Selecting a prosthetic leg is a big step in getting back to your life again. We know its not that simple but you’re not alone. In this guide we will guide to step by step from choosing the right prosthetics.
With high technology and determination, prosthetic leg have raised the confidence of many by letting them walk again powerfully. These innovative improvements have made them more effective and comfortable, and there are various points when selecting the proper one. Take this guide, and let’s go through each step together.
Prosthesis Through the Ages
Prosthesis has been used for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, people wore artificial toes, some over 3,400 years old. One of the earliest examples is the “Greville Chester toe,” made from cartonnage, a mix of glue, plaster, and linen. This material was flexible and could be adjusted to fit the user. Another prosthesis from that time is the “Cairo toe.”
In ancient Italy, a Roman used a prosthetic leg called the “Caupa leg.” This was crafted from bronze and hollowed-out wood and held in place with leather straps. Likewise, early artificial feet were made of iron and bronze in Switzerland and Germany during the 5th and 8th centuries.
In the medical history of the U.S., the need to support soldiers who lost their limbs during war paved the way for prosthesis. Since antiquity, an artificial leg could be made of iron or wood. In the early modern period, French surgeon Ambroise Pare developed the first truly functional prosthesis for soldiers returning from battle.
During the American Civil War in the 1860s, many soldiers required amputations, which spurred the creation of new prosthetic designs. Among the other inventions, this time was the so-called “Hanger limb,” which had a wooden base with added rubber in the ankle area and cushioning at the heel for increased comfort.
Today’s artificial legs have made significant progress. They have moved from wood and leather to modern materials such as plastic, titanium, aluminum and silicone. These materials make prosthetic legs much easier to use and more advanced than their predecessors from the past century.
Safety Measures You have to Take After Amputation
Leg amputation can result from serious accidents or injuries, complications from diabetes, infections, blood vessel diseases, congenital disabilities, or other health conditions. It would help to concentrate on essential factors such as hygiene, physical exercise, and general maintenance, which are critical following an amputation to assist healing and adaptability.
Do’s after amputation
- Give importance to cleanliness.
- Apply suitable coverings
- Keep skin hydrated
- Stay alert for changes
- Upgrade hygiene standards
- Adhere to medical guidance
- Stay active
- Use compression socks soon after wounds heal.
Don’ts
- Don’t press your stump unnecessarily, you may harm yourself or have an uncomfortable situation.
- Do not use chemicals, especially soaps that may become the reason for skin rashes in the stump part.
- Prevent exposure to moisture for long periods that could lead to infection or skin problems.
- Always remember to seek your clinician’s attention for discomfort or pain.
- Do not ever attempt to change your prosthesis on your own.
There is Always a Question that One May Ask:
How Do I Choose the Correct Prosthesis?
Here are some of the critical points.
- Lifestyle and Daily Activities: Before choosing any prosthesis, it’s essential to consider your daily activities and how you plan to use them. This understanding will help you make an intelligent choice that ideally fits your lifestyle and needs.
- Activity Level: There are three levels of activity: low, moderate, and high. Which of these are you going to choose? Matters a lot
- Fit and Comfort: Every prosthesis is crafted to fit your body perfectly. So, take the measurements correctly and look for parts that can be adjusted for comfort and fit.
- Technology and Features: Regarding technology, basic and advanced features are there, with standard functionality for daily use and advanced features with high-tech options like microprocessors for enhanced movement and control.
- Consultation with Professionals: Get the expert prosthetist’s advice regarding getting the best fit for your needs.
Mental Challenges
As for the psychological aspect, some common difficulties that may appear while using a prosthetic limb consist of coming to terms with a new physical appearance, mastering new tools, and adapting to new schedules. Accept these as an initiation to develop yourself and learn independence.
When people seek the right clinic to offer a thorough service from amputation to prosthesis fitting, these challenges can be easily met and achieved without much fuss. Select a clinic that can handle every aspect of your life, and you will get a step closer to an entire, independent life.
Growing self-confidence and conquering Fears
- You can celebrate small victories to boost confidence.
- Face fears with determination, turning them into opportunities for growth.
- Embrace each step forward as a path to greater independence.
Controlling levels of anger and developing proper patience
- Just view frustration as a sign of progress and learning.
- Practice patience, knowing that every challenge builds resilience.
- Stay positive, understanding that persistence leads to success.
Adjusting daily life and embracing new routines
- Discover creative ways to modify daily routines.
- Focus on how each adaptation brings new possibilities.
- Embrace the changes, leading to a more empowered and active life.
Top Exercises for Prosthesis Users
- Strength Exercises: That will help to enhance muscle strength and support.
- Coordination and Balancing Activities: Strengthen stability and coordination.
- Flexibility Exercises: Minimize the stiffness of your joints and muscles.
- Cardiovascular Exercises: Improve cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and muscular strength.
- Prosthetic-Specific Exercises: These exercises will assist you in getting the most out of your prosthetics.
What are the Key Components and Accessories of a Prosthetic Leg?
When you wear any above-knee or below-knee prosthesis, you can see many other essential products for functionality, proper fit, and comfort.
1. Socket
The socket is customizable. It measures the size and shape of the limb and provides a safe and comfortable fit. The part of the prosthetic leg fits over your residual limb.
2. Prosthetic Knee Joint
The Prosthetic knee joint is inevitable for the above-knee prosthesis. It comes in category I,e: mechanical—pneumatic -hydraulic knee joint, which allows you to bend and straighten your leg easily. Depending on your limb, you can use advanced knee joints, like microprocessor-controlled ones, which provide different levels of movement and stability.
3. Pylon
The pylon is the vital part of the prosthetic leg that connects to the socket and the prosthetic foot. It acts like the bone, providing support. It is made of lightweight materials like titanium, stainless steel, carbon fiber, or aluminum, and the pylon helps the user move quickly while being solid and durable.
4. Artificial Limbs
Artificial legs are designed to mimic how a human foot naturally walks. You can select from essential to complex models, which include features such as dynamic response, energy return, and adaptability to different surfaces and terrain.
5. Suspension System
A suspension system helps the prosthesis connect securely to the residual limb. It includes standard methods like vacuum systems, suction, belts, and straps, all crafted to ensure the prosthesis’s position during movement.
6. Prosthetic Liners
Liners are soft, cushioned sleeves crafted from silicon, gel, or foam worn over the socket’s residual limb. They provide comfort, protect the skin from irritation, and evenly distribute pressure.
7. Socks
These prosthetic socks are outer coverings worn over the liner to change the tightness or looseness of the socket. The liner comes in different thicknesses, allowing the wearer to put as much as they wish. It helps absorb sweat between the socket and the limb and reduces friction.
8. Cosmetic Covering
The cosmetic covering is a soft, flexible garment that enhances the prosthesis’s natural appearance. It conceals the pylon and other components to make the prosthetic leg realistic. The covering can be altered to match the user’s skin tone and texture.
9. Adjustable Wrench
Users can use this adjustable wrench for tightening or loosening the bolts and screws like to make quick fixes or adjustments.
10. Prosthetic Lubricant
This lubricant is applied to the socket or liner to reduce friction and prevent chafing. It helps you move smoothly against the skin, reducing discomfort and irritation.
11. Protective Cover
A shield prevents the prosthesis from damage caused by water or dirt. Mainly used by active outdoor users, where the prosthetic might be exposed to harsh conditions.
Aren’t Prosthetic Legs Custom-Fit for Each Individual’s Unique Needs?
A single product can’t accurately match everyone, as comfort and needs vary from person to person. To get the best fit, it’s essential to take accurate measurements so each individual receives a customized product tailored to them. The terrain where the product will be used also plays a vital role, as everything from design to materials must be considered.
1. Evaluation and Dimensioning
Start by evaluating the user’s lifestyle, needs, stump size, and general physique. Then, take an exact measurement of the residual limb to ensure the prosthesis is comfortable and functional.
2. Parts Selection
The Prosthetic Knee joint, Foot, Adaptors, and Pylon are customized according to user activity, weight, and surface the user intends to cover. This guarantees that the prosthesis can meet the user’s needs for simple and complex tasks.
3. Socket Design
The socket is custom-made based on the measurements taken during the assessment. An appropriately crafted socket ensures that the prosthetic leg stays securely attached and distributes balanced pressure. It also maximizes comfort and prevents skin irritation.
4. Suspension System
It is a prominent one that helps to keep the prosthetic leg attached to the body. The user can choose depending on the extent of amputation, comfort, and lifestyle. Vacuum, suction, and pin lock suspension systems offer total comfort that does not restrict the body movements.
5. Liner and Padding
For the remaining part of the body, Prosthetic Liners like silicone liner prosthetic and padding protect the residual limb and reduce pressure between the socket and skin. They are made from flexible materials that can stretch and are cut to the wearer’s size. Selecting the liners is also unavoidable to avoid skin breakdown.
6. Alignment and Adjustment
After choosing the prosthesis, it should be positioned correctly to allow the user to walk normally. Angle positioning and relative height should also be changed. When the prosthesis has been established, frequent follow-up appointments are important to aid the user in adjusting.
Routine Care and Adaptation
- The process will continue after the initial fitting. Routine care is essential to check whether the prosthesis continues to function well and its functionality.
- The residual limb shape usually changes over time or according to the user’s activity level; the adjustment is inevitable.
- Proper maintenance, regular checkups, and potential adaptations are the key to long-term usability and comfort.
Getting Used to a Prosthesis is a Challenge
- Heavy Sweating: It can affect the prosthesis and cause skin issues.
- Shifts in Limb Shape: The shape of the residual limb often changes during the first year after amputation, affecting the fit of the prosthetic socket.
- Limb Weakness: Weakness in the remaining limb can make it challenging to use the prosthesis for long periods.
- Phantom Sensations: Intense pain in the area where the limb gets amputated can make it challenging to use a prosthesis effectively. (Intense pain in the part of the body that is already amputated can make it challenging to use a prosthesis effectively).
Regular Maintenance and Updates are Critical to Your Prosthetic Leg Longevity
Once fitted with a prosthetic leg, it may seem perfect initially. However, over time, it might need to change for various reasons to continue meeting your needs effectively.
- Body Changes: Your body will change over time, and the prosthesis might need adjustments to fit properly.
- Daily Life Changes: You may require updates to your prosthesis in your daily activities or physical demands.
- Medical Changes: You are new, and changing health conditions might affect how your prosthesis works or fits.
- Wear and Tear: Regular prosthetic use can lead to wear and tear, which might mean you need them repaired or replaced over time.
- New Technology: The field of prosthetic technology is evolving. New developments can offer better features and improvements. It’s important to consider updating your prosthetics to take advantage of these advancements.
What Kind of Prosthesis can People Use?
You have multiple needs, and various advanced prosthetic types are available. Some prosthesis are designed for above-knee amputations in such a manner that they support a person’s thigh and the lower section of the leg. At the same time, others are designed for below-knee amputations to support the lower leg & foot. Additionally, cosmetic prosthesis mainly focus on looking like natural limbs, with less emphasis on functionality.
1. Endoskeletal Prosthesis
Due to its lightweight internal structure, it has an adjustable suspension system for transfemoral and transtibial amputations.
2. Exoskeletal Prosthesis
Exoskeletal prosthesis is long-lasting, heavy, solid outer covering is primarily preserved for Transtibial and transfemoral or above-knee amputations.
3. Transfemoral Prosthesis
Designed for high-level amputations of the knee or above and for the support of the thigh and lower leg.
4. Transtibial Prosthesis
Used in below-knee amputations, supporting the lower part of the leg and the foot.
5. Microprocessor-Controlled Prosthesis
Use advanced technology to automatically adjust movement, available for both above-knee amputation and below-knee amputation.
6. Hydraulic Prosthesis
It has hydraulic systems to smooth movement and adapt to different walking speeds.
7. Cosmetic Prosthesis
Cosmetic prosthesis mainly focuses on looking like natural limbs with less emphasis on functionality.
Conclusion
Expanding the traditional concept of an artificial limb from the ancient period to modernity highlights how it has developed this technology. Take all these advancements gladly because every move is a step toward independence and self-assertiveness. Celebrate the victories, stay active, and never hesitate to seek professional advice to get the best fit. The world of prosthesis is evolving rapidly, and with the proper knowledge and support, you can stay ahead, enjoying enhanced mobility and a more fulfilling life.
KARE: Prosthetic and Orthotic Center
At KARE, India’s No 1 prosthetics and orthotics solution, we cover a broad category of prosthetic services, from the basic to the advanced level. We provide the best prosthetic leg in India and we offer solutions from cheapest to most advanced pros artificial leg price in India and incredibly durable and stylish prosthetic legs.
In addition, we will provide guidance and therapies to assist in walking by our professional physiotherapists and follow up with you to ensure your comfort. If you feel discomfort after the fitting, we can make changes for your comfort. Find the KARE center near you and meet the best prosthetic leg cost and exceptional services we provide!
“Schedule your appointment today and let our experts guide you with care and understanding.“
