Lower Limb Prosthesis: What You Need to Know

What Parts Does a Lower Limb Prosthesis Have?

• An interface such as a liner to protect the skin and help with suspension.
• A socket to connect your residual limb to your prosthesis.
• A knee joint component for above-the-knee amputation.
• A pylon that serves to connect the foot to the socket or knee and can serve to absorb shock or torsion.
• A foot component matched to your needs.

The Average Cost of Lower Limb Prosthetics

Every prosthesis is custom-made for its user, so the costs will vary depending on the material, functions, and features you need. Prosthetic legs cost between $3,000 to over $50,000, and prosthetic feet range between $500 and $10,000. Your health insurance will usually cover a significant portion of the cost.

What is the Timeframe Between Surgery and Lower Limb Prosthesis Fitting?

Most people want to begin using their prosthesis as quickly as possible following surgery, and understandably so. However, the timeframe between your surgery and the receipt of your prosthetic limb can be several months. You can be fitted for your limb after your residual limb has healed and is no longer swelling, which can take up to four months. The fabrication process of prosthetics typically ranges from three to four weeks, and a few follow-up fitting appointments are necessary to ensure a proper socket fit.

How to Choose Lower Limb Prosthetics

When deciding which prosthesis suits you, consider how your lifestyle ties into its use. Are you an athlete who wants to continue running 5Ks or skiing? Do you have a job that will expose your prosthetic to dirt or moisture? Many people find that owning more than one prosthesis, one for daily wear and another for specialty use, is the most practical choice. Owning multiple prosthetics also provides you with a backup if one is damaged.

Learning to Walk with a Lower Limb Prosthetic

Learning to walk with a prosthetic limb is gradual; a solid support system and a positive outlook are essential during this time. A physical therapist will assist you with gait training to gain the strength, balance, and flexibility necessary to use a prosthesis. Once you’re ready, you will learn to place weight on your prosthetic limb and coordinate the movement of your legs. Mobility aids, like crutches or walkers, are very helpful during this time.

Lower Limb Prosthetics Near Edgewood, KY

Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics provides services for people of all ages from our well-equipped facilities in Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN. We’re a family-owned business and prioritize the comfort and privacy of our clients.

Contact us to schedule an initial evaluation. Visit our patient info page for answers to many questions and to download the necessary forms. Durrett’s Orthotics and Prosthetics proudly serves Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaverlick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY, and Cincinnati, OH.