If you and your family are new to prosthetics and orthotics, you may have some questions about what a prosthesis is, how the process works, how long it will take, what should I expect. We encourage you to bring questions to your first and every appointment. We want your experience to be a fulfilling one. Our excellent providers work hard to keep the process simple and comfortable for the patients who require our care.
It is necessary to have a physician’s prescription, insurance card(s), identification, and any other related billing information. If you have questions about the process, make a list to discuss with your practitioner. You may want to bring along a robe or pair of shorts for your comfort.
A prosthesis is an artificial replacement for a missing limb or part of a limb. There are many highly technical materials used
today to make a prosthesis much different from leather and wood of more than 100 years ago. A prosthesis can be made.
Prosthetic limbs are categorized on the level of amputation: above the knee, below the knee, above the elbow, and below the elbow. Preference based on prosthetic use and selection is typically based on factors related to functionality, aesthetics, and health concerns. For leg amputees in particular, prosthetics can be vital for mobility and avoidance of muscle atrophy, trunk instability, and spinal curvature. For some arm amputees, aesthetics may be a determining factor. Prosthetic limbs provide different purposes based on an amputee’s needs and desires.
When you first come to our office you will be greeted and brought to a patient care room to meet your practitioner for your initial, comprehensive evaluation. We will get to know you and inquire about your amputation, lifestyle, interests, and levels of activity. We want to know about you and how you want to live, work, and play. This allows us to give you options for your prosthesis and successfully create a device for your needs. Although a prosthesis is never as natural as your own limb, it can help you do many things quite effectively if you are willing to combine your energy and willpower into learning how to use it. The most important aspect of success is working with your doctor, prosthetist, and therapist to address your challenges. Your prosthetist will work on the process of design, fitting, and training to create a prosthesis that will help you be successful.
We accept all major private, Medicare, Medicaid, Workers Comp, and government insuranceprograms. Call our office at
800.922.1584 before your initial visit so we can verify if we accept your plan.
Yes, most insurance carriers cover both prosthetic and orthotic services. The necessary components and related appointments are normally covered, including fitting sessions. Future device maintenance is also typically covered. For more information and verification, call our office at 800.922.1584.
The fabrication of a prosthesis is a custom and labor-intensive process. It requires multiple fittings to ensure the best fit. Insurance authorization also plays a key role in delivering a prosthetic device. Once authorization is obtained, it will take about two weeks, provided we can obtain the necessary parts from manufacturers.
On average, most patients will wear a temporary prosthesis for six months to one year depending on how quickly the residual limb stabilizes.
Yes, we can laminate in colors, with t-shirt fabric of your favorite sports teams or cartoon stars, or we can customize your prosthetic socket specifically to you. Please discuss socket options with your prosthetist.
Yes, your residual limb will shrink as the swelling reduces. It will change from bulbous to a thinner, cone-like shape. There are various ways to reduce swelling, which include wrapping the limb, a shrinker, and exercises.
Phantom pain will vary from person to person. Some people never experience it, while others experience it from time to time or forever. Often when you are fit with your prosthesis, the pain or sensation may decrease due to the total contact provided by the socket. Sometimes, shrinkers also provide relief and there are techniques that can be used to reduce phantom pains that your therapist will discuss with you.
Many persons who experience limb loss will return to a normal mode of life, activity, and function within a few to several months. The factors that weigh in are level of amputation, comfortable prosthetic fitting, good follow-up care, rehab process, support system, and a positive attitude.
It is important that you wash your liner daily. Ensure it is cleaned to remove all bacteria, sweat, and dirt build-up. Rinse the liner with clean water to remove all soap residue, and dry thoroughly. In addition, disinfect your liner once a week by cleaning it with rubbing alcohol.
Renovations to your home will depend upon your rehab and personal needs. Many patients will need a shower chair, detachable shower head, and grab bars in the bathroom. You may also need to consider a ramp for your home’s entrance.
Yes, it’s possible to wear high heels, or special shoes with a prosthesis. Also, there are cosmetic prosthetic feet available
with space between the big and second toe, perfect for sandals. Speak with your prosthetist for more information.
An amputee will most likely be able to safely resume driving with the assistance of adaptive devices. Contact your car insurance company and local Department of Motor Vehicles for more information.
There are still many questions you may have. Please review the Organizations in our Resources menu. The Amputee Coalition and other groups can help you with questions on amputee life. There are also sports organizations and groups related to children, among others.
An orthosis is a term for a medical device that is applied externally to help the user with one or more issues. These include reducing pain, increasing mobility, protecting an injury, supporting a disability, and ensuring the area is properly aligned. These devices may also be known as a brace or an orthotic.
An orthosis may be prescribed by a doctor if you have a physical impairment, need assistance following surgery, or to help with an injury, arthritis, or other condition.
There are a few different types of back braces:
The LSO should feel tight, snug, and supportive.
Foot drop or drop foot is a condition that can occur because of a stroke, nerve injury, neurological or muscle disorders,
or disease such as polio. It can make lifting the front of the foot difficult. This can lead to your foot dragging while walking.
Foot drop can be temporary or permanent.
An ankle foot orthosis may help with foot drop by limiting how much the ankle can move up and down. Also, the ankle
foot orthosis stops the foot from dropping while taking a step. The brace also encourages the foot to hit the ground on the
heel. This improves your gait by reducing how much the foot deviates.
Most AFOs are made with low-maintenance materials that are easy to clean. In general, use warm water and mild soap,
rinse, and dry. Please discuss your specific orthosis care with your clinician.
