How to Use Prosthetic Leg for Better Mobility?

If you have recently undergone amputation or are about to have surgery, you may have considered what life with a prosthesis would be like. Prosthetic legs, or prosthetics, are designed to help people who have experienced leg amputations walk with ease. They mimic the function and almost the appearance of human legs. Even with a prosthetic leg, some patients still need the help of a cane, walker, or crutches to get around.

As a professional custom prosthetic leg supplier, Wonderfu Device can help answer your questions if you're looking for more helpful information to help match the most suitable prosthetic for you. 

 

What do I need to do before I can walk with a prosthesis?

Before you start walking, your first concern is the fit of your prosthetic. Prosthetics are made from different parts that work together:

The low limb prosthesis itself is made of durable and lightweight materials with the patient's needs in mind. Depending on where the amputation occurred, you may or may not have functional knee and ankle joints on your prosthetic leg.

The socket fits your residual limb and is one of the most important parts of securing the prosthesis securely to your body.

A suspension system secures the prosthesis to the residual limb. Suspension system options include distal locking pins, sleeve suction, or vacuum suction.
Once you have selected your preferred components and installed them properly, the rehabilitation process follows as you work to strengthen your legs, arms and cardiovascular system. Along the way, you'll work closely with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and rehabilitation physicians to work your way toward your action goals. Once you have enough strength to put weight on the leg, you are fitted with a short prosthetic training foot to relearn balance.

CUSTOM LOWER LIMB PROSTHESIS SPECIAL FOR YOU

 

Once you're comfortable with training your feet, you'll continue the learning process using equipment that increases your height two inches at a time. During this step, you'll use a walker or cane for added stability. The next step is to have a custom full-length prosthetic fitted, and you'll learn to manipulate the joints to mimic a natural gait. The entire process of learning to walk can take up to a year, especially if your amputation occurred above the knee.

 

Importance of Exercises

Rehabilitation exercises during recovery and for the rest of your life can help increase your range of motion and better support your new lifestyle. Consistently doing the exercises your physical therapist gives you can also help improve your balance and reduce phantom pain sensations.

Perhaps one of the most important benefits of consistent exercise is boosting your self-confidence. Be patient and know that it will take time and practice to gain confidence in your prosthetic.

 

If you have questions or you are ready to talk about prosthetic options, feel free to contact us to get further consultation.