You who are reading this article at this very moment may have your residual limb (stump) in the healing phase and are anxiously waiting to get your first orthopedic prosthesis like prime orthopedics for example or are looking to learn more about life after an amputation. We are here to help you understand what you need to know about prosthetics, as your entire amputee journey can be exciting for some or scary and frustrating for others because everyone will deal with the situation differently.
“When a person suffers an amputation, they fall by parachute into a new world.” And in the face of all the new reality, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the information. Therefore, this article aims to answer the most frequently asked questions to help you get a prosthesis and what to expect when you receive your device. Come on!
What Is The Average Time To Start Fitting?
On average, between 45 and 60 days after the amputation, the above elbow prosthetic arm, the fitting can be started if the patient has not had any other trauma to the body. Some people may take a little longer, around 3 months. But before making your prosthesis, look for your doctor so that he can release you to use the prosthesis.
The rehabilitation and prosthesis preparation process starts right after the surgery with physiotherapy or occupational therapy. You learn to move around with a wheelchair, walker, or crutches and exercise and stretch to avoid contractures. These exercises keep you as mobile as possible and prepare you to wear and use your prosthesis.
When Can I Go Back To What I Used To Do Before The Amputation?
Your new normal will depend on the level of amputation and rehabilitation process. In the first year, you will have some changes in the shape and size of your stump, and you will work with your team to make the necessary adjustments, mainly in fitting the prosthesis. Your body must also relearn activities, coordination, gait, and balance. You will continue to improve with time and effort.
At the beginning of using a prosthesis, you may experience discomfort and pain, which is to be expected. So be as specific as possible with your prosthetist so that he can make adjustments to stop the pain and discomfort.
How Long Does A Prosthesis Last?
On average, a prosthesis can last from months to years, and everything will depend on your activity level, growth, and age. In the early stages after limb loss, many changes occur in the residual limb, causing it to shrink. This will involve changing the fitting and obtaining a new Liner. If your activity level increases or you want to do more, you may need to change your device or some of its components.
Is It Difficult To Wear A Prosthesis?
Time, effort, determination, and patience. These are some elements you will need to develop in yourself when taking the first steps with your prosthesis. But do not worry. After purchasing your prosthesis, you will receive all the necessary training to use and care for a prosthesis.
It is also recommended that, in addition to taking the training offered by the clinic that provided you with the prosthesis, you try to work with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist at your home or in another office.
