Lower Limb Prosthesis

Jun. 24, 2024

Understanding Lower Limb Prosthetics

Reach out to us to explore your needs for lower limb prosthesis for sale. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to assist you in finding the best options tailored to your requirements.

What is a Lower Limb Prosthesis?

A lower limb prosthesis serves as an artificial replacement for part or all of a limb, including the hip, thigh, knee, ankle, and foot. These prosthetic components can be utilized for aesthetic enhancement or for restoring functionality.

Amputations in the lower extremities commonly fall into two categories: transfemoral, which occurs above the knee, and transtibial, which occurs below the knee.

To best meet individual needs, prosthetists tailor and fit the prosthetic devices to the wearer’s specific measurements and requirements, whether for cosmetic appeal or functional restoration.

Different Types of Lower Limb Prosthetics

Primary categories of lower limb prosthetics consist of ankle and foot systems, knee systems, and specialized sport-specific systems.

Ankle and Foot Systems

Hydraulic dampening to minimize impacts
Self-adjusting according to walking pace
Active propulsion to lower energy consumption
Endoskeletal torsion units to allow for twisting motions
Ankle adaptations for varying shoe heights

Prosthetic Knee Systems

Body-powered designs
Multi-axis or single-axis joints
Electronically controlled features enhancing stability and reducing effort during walking

Sport-Specific Systems

Custom designed for specific recreational activities
Can cater to unique sports such as running, skiing, or swimming

Lower limb prosthetics are categorized as either exoskeletal or endoskeletal:

Exoskeletal Prosthetics are sturdy, unyielding designs made from hard plastic or metal for longevity.

Endoskeletal Prosthetics combine a softer outer layer with an internal framework, allowing for adjustability but less overall durability. Most lower limb prosthetics employ an endoskeletal design for enhanced flexibility.

Composition of Lower Limb Prosthetics

Typically, lower limb prosthetics are assembled from the following elements:

Socket
Interface (the inner layer contacting the skin)
Suspension system
Structural frame
Knee unit
Foot/ankle components
Hip joint assembly

Available Options for Lower Limb Prosthesis

While many individuals with partial-foot amputations can stand and walk without a prosthesis, a partial-foot prosthesis offers enhanced motion and assists with walking at medium to slow speeds. Some prosthetics are even capable of supporting activities like running or stair climbing.

Syme Ankle Disarticulation

This procedure enhances prosthetic adaptability post-Syme amputation for improved cosmetic appearance and fitting.

Transtibial (Below-Knee)

Below-knee prosthetic devices aid in improving balance, stability, and movement, with various foot and ankle configurations available according to individual demands.

Above-Knee

Above-knee prosthetics combine socket, knee/ankle joints, and foot components to promote balanced and stable movement.

Hip Disarticulation

Hip disarticulation prosthetics cater to amputees who have undergone amputation or have anomalies at or near the hip joint.

Our Product Range

Our prosthetic and orthotic solutions are constantly updated to deliver cutting-edge options, customized for the unique goals of each patient.

Micro Processor Ankle (Freedom International)
Proflex Foot (Össur)
Proprio Foot (Össur)
Triton Smart Ankle (Ottobock)
Symbionic Leg – Micro Knee and Ankle (Össur)
Kinterra, Foot and Ankle (Freedom International)

Cost of a Prosthetic Leg

The price for a prosthetic leg can vary dramatically, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 based on the components utilized. Medical insurance often partially covers the expense of prosthetic limbs.

If you are seeking further details on Prosthetic Parts Manufacturer, please reach out to us.

Your Prosthetic Process Overview

The process for receiving a prosthetic limb typically initiates with the involvement of a prosthetist, a medical professional specializing in prosthetics who will assess, design, and fit your prosthesis based on your unique requirements and body measurements. The complete development timeline for a prosthetic limb may span several weeks, during which time fittings will adjust for optimal placement.

Receive Your Lower Limb Prosthesis Evaluation Today

At Pongratz, we offer prosthetic solutions designed for every individual patient, regardless of specific needs. We understand the profound effects of limb loss on all ages and stages of life. Our dedicated team is here to support you throughout the transition back to an active life.

Critical Considerations Before Getting a Prosthetic Leg

Prosthetic legs can assist individuals with leg amputations by facilitating mobility that mimics the function and sometimes appearance of natural legs. However, some may still require support devices like a cane or crutches for effective use.

For individuals facing or recovering from a lower limb amputation, considering a prosthetic leg is often a necessary step, albeit one that requires careful consideration.

Not Everyone is a Good Fit for a Prosthetic Leg

While many benefit significantly from a prosthetic leg, it is not universally suitable for all. Certain concerns to address with your healthcare provider include:

Is there sufficient soft tissue available around the remaining bone?
What is the current level of discomfort?
Are there existing conditions affecting the residual limb's skin?
What degree of motion is present in the remaining limb?
Is the non-amputated leg in good health?
What was your activity level prior to the amputation?
What are your mobility aspirations?

The type of amputation affects this decision; generally, below-knee prostheses are simpler to manage compared to above-knee variants, particularly if the knee joint remains intact. The reason behind the limb loss may also affect the overall viability of using a prosthesis.

Each individual's circumstances surrounding an amputation are unique. Choosing to pursue a prosthetic leg should be a collaborative effort between the patient and healthcare professionals.

Prosthetic Legs Are Customized, Not Universal

If you are advised to consider a prosthetic leg, gaining clarity on how various components work in unison is essential:

The prosthetic leg: Constructed from lightweight, durable materials; functionality relies on the amputation level and may include active knee and ankle joints.
The socket: A precisely fitted mold of your residual limb, securing the prosthetic to your body.
The suspension system: Ensures the prosthesis remains secure through methods such as sleeve suction, vacuum suction, or distal locking.

Each component has numerous options, each with its own advantages and concerns. Collaborating with your prosthetist is critical for finding the right fit, establishing a relationship that may last a lifetime.

A prosthetist designs specialized prosthetic limbs and assists with selection, necessitating frequent check-ins—particularly during the early stages—to ensure comfort and functionality.

Engagement in Rehabilitation Is Ongoing

Upon choosing components for your prosthetic leg, rehabilitation plays an important role in strengthening limbs and enhancing functionality as you adapt to walking with your new limb. Collaborating closely with rehabilitation specialists is vital to formulating a personalized plan aimed at achieving mobility goals. Maintaining the health of the intact leg is a key focus since no prosthetic can fully replicate a healthy limb.

Challenges in Adjusting to a Prosthetic Leg

Initial adjustments to using a prosthetic leg can be strenuous. Even after the rehabilitation phase concludes, a variety of challenges might arise that your prosthetist and rehabilitation team can assist with, including:

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), which can compromise prosthetic fit and lead to skin complications.
Altered shape of the residual limb, particularly in the first year post-amputation, as tissue firms into its final form, potentially affecting socket fit.
Weakness in the remaining limb, which can make prolonged use of the prosthesis difficult.
Phantom limb pain, which can be severe enough to complicate prosthetic mobility.

Understanding Phantom Limb Pain

Phantom limb pain is a prevalent issue that affects many amputees; it's characterized by sensations originating from the missing limb. About 80% of individuals who have undergone amputations report experiencing this phenomenon. Although it occurs without clear causation, prior pain in the limb before amputation may be a contributing factor.

Mirror therapy—which involves exercises using a mirror—can prove beneficial for managing certain types of phantom pain. This technique creates an illusion of the amputated limb, tricking the brain into perceiving its presence and relieving discomfort.

In some cases, phantom limb pain may arise from other conditions impacting the residual limb, such as sciatica or neuroma. Identifying and treating these underlying issues may also alleviate phantom sensations.

Your Prosthetic Needs May Evolve

At times, individuals may find themselves lacking the functionality they desire with their current prosthetic leg. As the residual limb stabilizes, you may transition from a temporary device designed for short-term use to a long-term solution lasting three to five years. Alternatively, increasing activity levels may outpace the capabilities of your current prosthetic design, signaling the need for reassessment.

Signs indicating the necessity for an evaluation may include new discomfort, instability, or a general decline in functionality. Your prosthetist may recommend adjustments to your existing device or even prescribe a new prosthetic leg, typically renewed every three to five years. If new components are introduced, be sure to comprehend their functions thoroughly, as additional therapy may be required to adapt to changes.

Innovations in Prosthetic Technology

The field of prosthetic limb technology is constantly advancing, introducing innovations such as microprocessor-driven components and activity-specific designs.

Microprocessor joints equipped with sensors facilitate a more natural walking gait and can adapt to varied surfaces for enhanced mobility.
Specialized prosthetic legs cater to an array of activities, including running and swimming, allowing users to switch as needed. In many instances, your standard prosthetic can undergo modifications by your prosthetist to accommodate various functions.
Osseointegration surgery: This surgical option integrates a metal implant directly into the bone, allowing direct attachment of the prosthetic leg to the implant, eliminating the need for a socket. While still under evaluation, users report improved mobility and sensory feedback.

Remember, you are not alone as you navigate through multiple options for prosthetic legs. Your care team will guide you to weigh the pros and cons, finding the perfect solution tailored to your life.

Comprehensive Amputee Rehabilitation Support

Having a dedicated team of experts is crucial during recovery from limb amputation. At Johns Hopkins, our multidisciplinary team of physiatrists, orthotists, prosthetists, physical and occupational therapists, rehabilitation psychologists, and specialists collaborates to create a personalized rehabilitation plan for you.