Your Go-to Guide for Lower Limb Prosthetics
By Georgia Prosthetics
The journey into finding, fitting, getting, and maintaining lower limb prosthetics can be a long and hard one. Finding a company that will come alongside you and support you in this journey is so important.
Georgia Prosthetics is one of the best in the field. A personalized experience with a team who truly cares will leave you feeling confident in your prosthetic. Georgia Prosthetics features a wide variety of prosthetics, customized to each patient’s specific needs. Among these options is the lower limb prosthetic.
Lower limb prosthetics refer to any prosthesis that replaces a limb in the lower body. They are created to restore lower limb function, as well as provide cosmetic solutions. There are several types of lower limb prosthetics, including: hip, thigh, knee, ankle, and foot components.
Hip Disarticulation Prosthetics
Prosthetic hip joints sit differently than normal hip joints. They typically sit near the front of the body to increase balance. Hips need a prosthetic that will be comfortable, won’t interfere with function, and also support body weight properly.
This is why it is of utmost importance to be custom fitted for any prosthesis. An ill-fitting prosthetic can make life harder, rather than improving it.
In choosing a hip disarticulation prosthetic, it is also important to consider the length of the thigh and shin segments, the placement of the knee prosthetic, and the place of the foot piece. Because the hip joints are so important for movements and sitting, it will include a learning process. However, every hard day will be worth it in the end with your highly specialized prosthesis.
Above Knee (Transfemoral) Prosthetics
The thigh segment is an essential element as it helps support the weight of the upper body and allows for the knee attachment to function properly. It is important to find the right build and a shape that will increase function and comfort.
The knee joint
This is a critical point for leg mobility and bendability. Because the knee socket is so complex and necessary it is one of the most important parts of a lower limb prosthesis. There are many types of knee prosthetics to choose from and your choice will depend on your specific level of activity, exercise, movement, and lifestyle. Choice can also vary based on your most frequent terrain and travels.
Different specific types include:
The single axis: it consists of a single hinge and is the most reliable option
Manual locking: this is the most stable option and can be manually locked and released into place as needed
The stance control: this is also a very stable option that relies on weight placement to bend
Polycentric: this is a great option for a more active individual who will need multiple centers of rotation to move in unique situations
Hydraulic: these rely on a chamber that fills with gas or oil to give the patient the ability to increase or decrease walking cadence as the knee works on its own to compensate
The Ankle and Foot
Finally, the ankle and foot provide the base for the body weight. The ankle needs to be strong and the foot should add a strong sense of balance to withstand the large amount of force needed to walk and run.
Some prosthetic feet and ankles are made with multi-axial capabilities that allow the ankle to rotate in several ways.
Depending on the patient’s level of activity, they may choose a less moveable foot that simply aids in strength and balance.
Foot prosthetics are made of a variety of materials such as wood, plastic, foam, or carbon fiber. Again, many of the choices depend on the activity level of the patient.
Foot prosthetics can also be made to look very similar to an anatomical foot with technology on the inside in order to fit a shoe or for cosmetic purposes.
Choosing a lower limb prosthesis that is right for you can be a difficult process. Amputees are both strong and resilient beyond measure. Our team at Georgia Prosthetics hopes to aid you in this journey and help you make the choices that are right for you, your lifestyle, and your future. We are here for you.
Posted by Georgia Prosthetics
1947 Briarwood Ct NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Phone: 404-873-3725