There are undoubtedly many people who can use a leg prosthesis like custom orthotics and prosthetics, and consequently, many cases where use is recommended for different patients. Different types of amputations can occur in lower limbs; therefore, different types of prostheses are indicated.
Because of this, they are paying attention to several factors necessary before looking for the first leg prosthesis. The recovery time and the time to prepare the stump for receiving a prosthesis must be respected above all else. Only this, with proper follow-up and adequate equipment, can make the fitting process safe and comfortable. Learn about above knee prosthesis types here
Amputation Levels
Amputation is removing a limb, usually due to trauma, accident, or illness. Amputations can occur at different heights or, as they are called in more technical language, levels.
In the case of the lower limbs, the most radical amputations can occur at the hip level, a situation in which the entire leg needs to be amputated, which makes the control of the prosthetic leg remain at the hip. And the most common amputations occur just above or below the knee and, in some cases, at the ankle.
When To Get Your First Prosthetic Leg
Healing Of The Stump
First of all, wait for your stump to heal. A complete recovery is essential for prostheses with greater comfort in the future. There is no point in accelerating recovery and skipping steps if the consequences are negative in the medium and long term.
A poorly healed stump is more likely to be affected by infections.
Stump Desensitization
Right after an amputation, it is normal for the end of the residual limb to be more tender than usual. Because of this, it is not indicated that very sensitive stumps receive leg prostheses. However, applying the correct and consistent treatment in a short time makes it possible to leave your highly sensitive stump in conditions for fitting a prosthesis.
Healthy And Well-Bandaged Stump
If the residual limb is completely healthy and the patient already knows how to bandage his stump, we can say that this is the ideal time to look for the first leg prosthesis.
Don’t Be In A Hurry To Buy A Prosthetic Leg
Respecting your own body’s time is the best recommendation as to when to look for a first prosthesis. Therefore, patience is an artifice that cannot be given up to walk safely again using a prosthesis.
