How to Get the Most Out of Your Prosthetic Leg

Once the surgery is over, you have healed properly and it is time to get leg prosthesis, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the most out of your new leg. The tree most important aspects of prosthesis are socket fit, alignment and your physical and mental capabilities. Keep these factors in mind when speaking to your prosthetist and doctor to ensure that you get the best use and experience out of your artificial leg. 

Socket Fit

One of the first things that your prosthetist has to do is make a custom socket based on your limb shape. The socket plays a crucial role in the overall leg performance since it is the point of contact between your body and the prosthetic limb. Movement causes impact on the socket so a good, secure and close fit ensures that the impact distributes evenly and minimizes impact. 

The socket varies in shape and materials largely based on your physical situation and lifestyle. Carbon fiber, carbon graphite and plastic are some of the most common materials. 

Whatever the case, a good socket fit ensures you have good fiction and control of your prosthesis. The socket also guarantees that there is minimal residual limb movement inside the socket. The prosthetist should also factor in how your residual limb changes during different times of the day. 

Alignment

Alignment where orthotics and prosthetics are concerned simply refers to how the different parts fit together. There are a few factors that can influence what proper alignment means including; 

• Ability to control the prosthesis

• Body size and posture

• Level of amputation and length of residual limb

• The type of components and how they work

It is crucial that you choose a prosthetist that has great clinical expertise to determine what the best alignment is for your specific case. Your feedback also helps a great deal to come up with the right alignment. Some of the benefits of good alignment include improved function, superior comfort, better stability and more control. 

Physical and Mental Abilities

Finally, your mental and physical abilities determine the best prosthetic leg based on your situation. Physical considerations such as balance, stamina and muscle strength play a role here. It is also important to determine lifestyle factors such as whether you plan to return to work or school, the types of physical or leisure activities you enjoy and potential challenges around your home and workplace or neighborhood.

 

Rehabilitation and therapy is the final frontier in ensuring that you can use your prosthetic properly. Your first line of defense is to get a good prosthetic manufacturer and supplier to ensure that your new leg supports your return to an active lifestyle. Finally, ask your prosthetist about care and maintenance tips and be sure to report any problems or issues in due time to get them addressed as soon as possible. 

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