Before Oscar Pistorius became the focal point of a murder mystery, the double amputee was renowned internationally for competing in the London 2012 Summer Olympics games with prosthetic legs. In medicine, prosthetics are designed to help individuals with missing body parts attain a normal life. Artificial legs assist patients to boost their self-esteem and confidence levels.
A trans-femoral prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces any amputated limb above the knee. The prosthesis is made from a high-quality raw material known as polypropylene. It has several components which fit together to construct the final piece. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, the following nine components make up the trans-femoral prosthesis:
- Solid ankle cushion heel
- Hexagonal-head bolt and lock washer
- Convex ankle
- Concave cylinder and pin
- Set of washers with a nut and bolt
- Convex disc
- Conical cup
- Trans-femoral cup
- Knee shell
Benefits of Trans-Femoral Prosthesis
For those with amputated limbs, it’s often a challenge to live a normal life. The impaired ability to perform certain day-to-day tasks can be inhibiting. Over many years, prosthetics in Memphis, TN, have helped many people obtain access to high quality prostheses through the use of advanced technology. It can be reasoned that the decision to invest in artificial limbs can be a tough one, but there are many benefits.
Mobility
Prosthetics provide impaired patients with the ability to move around easier when fitted properly. Although many areas are wheelchair accessible, there are some public areas and buildings that are not accessible. For many patients, wearing prosthetics allows them to feel independent and provide greater mobility.
Energy
A study conducted by the National Institute for the Orthopedically Handicapped suggests that the energy expenditure an amputee expends is far greater when walking with fitting crutches versus walking with a prosthetic. The data on energy cost indicates that all below knee amputee groups walk with less effort by using a prosthesis. A prosthesis, therefore, allows one to be able to move around efficiently and comfortably.
Psychological Lift
Wheelchair-bound amputees often feel a sense of helplessness when they ask others for assistance. Amputees often lose the sense of normalcy they once had. Access to prosthetics helps people blend in better with the rest of the population and return to their normal lives. Day-to-day activities are made less challenging, and amputees experience less frustration when they have access to artificial limbs. In addition, wearing artificial limbs help self-conscious individuals gain their self-esteem and self-confidence.
Our company can assist you in making the best decision when it comes to choosing the right prosthetic for your needs. Our prosthetics office in Memphis, TN, has skilled prosthetists that specialize in the use of advanced technology solutions tailored to the needs of our patients. Our company will work with you and your family to make the most educated decision to choose the most fitting prosthetic.