Amputation is the last remedy meant to remove unhealthy tissues that could affect the rest of your body. However, being an amputee isn’t the end of the world. There are many options, and getting a prosthetic is one of the important decisions.
You can use it for many years when you get the right prosthetic. It’ll be pain-free and can get you back to the lifestyle you once lived or aspire to live. So, are there things to consider when getting a prosthetic? Read on to find out all the answers to that query.
What Should I Consider Before Getting My Prosthetic?
Definitely, there are important things to put into consideration and discuss with your prosthetist before picking your choice of prosthetic:
The Comfort of the Prosthetics
Your prosthetic should offer maximum comfort, especially if you use it daily. Getting a suitable artificial limb means getting molds, measurements, and ensuring the limb fits right.
If the prosthetic causes swelling or irritation of any kind around the residual limb, it means there’s a fit issue. Consult your prosthetic for an adjustment or replacement.
Your Goals and Lifestyle
A prosthetic is simply a device, and no single device is best for everyone. Each individual has different priorities.
Every prosthetic is designed explicitly for the person using it. They’re classified into K-Level categories starting from K-level to K-4 according to the user’s lifestyle.
While some people love sports and exercise, others just want a prosthetic that imitates the natural look of a natural human limb. Be sure to discuss your activities and priorities with your prosthetic provider.
The Level of Amputation
The level of amputation is one thing you can’t fail to consider when choosing a prosthetic.
For instance, you may not require a prosthetic that allows joint movement if you’ve had a below-the-knee amputation. It’ll only be essential for an above-the-knee proceudre.
And as you’d expect, the same applies to below-the-elbow and above-the-elbow amputations.
Wearing Schedule
After amputation, a prosthetic is fitted once you’ve healed and completed physical therapy. After the fitting, adjustment takes time and effort, and many amendments and refits are made.
Your prosthetist may prescribe a wearing schedule to ease you into wearing the prosthetic with minimum wear time. The time is gradually increased if you show good progress and no sign of discomfort.
The Cost
Fortunately, most insurance providers have coverage for a prosthesis. Each plan is different, and the cost of each artificial limb also differs. So, you might need to talk to your prosthetic provider to determine your coverage.
Once that’s done, you can consider what cost you’ll need to pay for the type of prosthesis you prefer.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Laboratory in Farmingdale, NY
Finding a trustworthy prosthetic provider is essential. A good provider will guide and fit you with a perfect tool to enable the lifestyle you want.
Protholic Laboratories, Inc. is your premier choice for customized prosthetics and orthotics in Farmingdale, South Farmingdale, and Bethpage, NY. With a team of specialists and an on-site laboratory, we design innovative prosthetic solutions for children and adults using fine components, lightweight material, and the latest technology.
Contact us now to schedule your appointment. We’re at your service to provide the prosthetic that meets your needs.