FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
It depends on how long the wound healing takes. With a well healed wound and no post-operative complications, temporary prostheses can be fitted after four to five weeks.
You should not experience any pain when walking on your prosthesis. However, it takes some time to get accustomed to wearing an artificial limb. Each new socket may feel different to the previous one for a period of time while you adjust to the new fit.
The multidisciplinary team consists of a rehabilitation specialist, prosthetist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and a nurse. Other specialist may be consulted if necessary.
Your definitive prosthesis is prescribed by the rehabilitation specialist once the volume of your residual limb has stabilized and initial gait training with your temporary prosthesis has been successful. It normally takes s between three and six months before this occurs.
There are numerous ways of suspending your prosthesis such as straps, suction or pin connections. Your prosthetist will discuss the most appropriate type of suspension with you.
Yes. It is very common to find redness on parts of your residual limb due to increased blood circulation, however if the redness does not disappear after 15 to 20 minutes, discontinue wearing the prosthesis and contact your prosthetist.
There are no specific time restrictions on wearing an artificial limb as long as it is comfortable and is not causing any skin or tissue abrasions.
Most types of shoes are suitable, however it is important to keep a few things in mind when choosing the right footwear such as the weight of the shoe, whether or not the soles are non-slip and also if the heel heights are the same to avoid misalignment.
It is very common to experience phantom sensations in body parts that have been amputated, however if the sensation is painful you should contact your doctor to discuss treatment options.
Unless you are using a silicone or urethane liner, it is absolutely necessary to wear at least one stump sock between your skin and the liner because it reduces friction and avoids skin breakdowns. A second sock should be worn on the outside of the liner to make donning and doffing easier.
Minor adjustments can be achieved by wearing additional or thicker stump socks. If the problems persist or reoccur after a few days, please contact your prosthetist.
Generally, if the volume and shape of the residual limb are stable, the prosthesis should be replaced every 2 to 3 years. The very first definitive prosthesis however often requires replacement after 9 to 12 months due to significant volume and shape changes of the residual limb.
Unless some of the components used in your prosthesis have certain maintenance requirements you should expect to see your prosthetist at least every six months to ensure that the fit is still comfortable and the components remain functional and safe.
Generally not. There are specially designed prostheses for showering and swimming so please contact your prosthetist to talk about the options.
Generally, most private insurance companies will pay for your prosthesis and Medicare will pay for 80% of the prosthesis. To discuss other prosthetic funding options, please contact us.
Yes, most people can resume their normal sports activities; however, there are specially designed prostheses that are often required for some sports such as swimming or running.
