The odds are that you may have met someone that had a prosthetic limb and never even knew it. Prosthetics can range from cosmesis types which provide little, if any function, and meant for cosmetic purposes only. Others are very functional and may or may not, be cosmetically disguised. An example would be a mechanical lower leg designed to wear under pants that is little more than wires and metal. Click Here to see examples of prosthetic devices.
Prosthetic limbs are substitutes for those lost due to injury, illness, accident, or due to congenital defects at birth. There are four types of prosthetic limbs provided by Capital Prosthetics and Orthotic Center Inc, as complete or partial replacements for arms or legs. These are referred to as transtibial (BK or below the knee), transfemoral (AK or above the knee), transradial (BE or below the elbow), and transhumeral (AE or above the elbow).
Prosthetic limbs are made up of several different parts and are nothing short of engineering marvels. There is the limb itself, the socket which connects the limb to the recipient’s body, the attachment or suspension system, and the control system. The remaining part of the individual’s natural limb is referred to as the residual limb, and the usefulness and comfort of the prosthesis, depends on a great deal on how well the two fit together.
The amputee’s residual limb changes the size and shape over a period of months, and even, years. Therefore, the socket’s fit must be accurate, to not damage the residual limb. Advancements in technology, including scanning the residual limb with lasers and using 3-dimensional printing, allow for near-perfect fitting sockets. Another key factor in obtaining a precise fit is the expertise level of the prosthetist (someone skilled in fitting prosthetic devices).
Learning to live with and adjust to a prosthetic limb, is both a psychological and physical challenge, which is why fostering a relationship with a prosthetist is critical. A prosthetist’s role in this process cannot be overstated and the professionals at Capital Prosthetics and Orthotic Center Inc are with you throughout the entire process. A prosthetist helps you determine the best device for your needs by asking questions such as “What types of activities do you plan on doing?”, “What do you want the limb to be able to do?”, “Do you care about its appearance?”, or “Do you want to be able to run or swim?”
