Important Factors To Consider When Choosing a Prosthetic

Whether you are considering getting your first prosthetic, or replacing an older one, there are several important factors to consider. These include comfort, appearance, functionality and cost. A good prosthetist will work with you to find a prosthetic that meets your needs.

Comfort

Ideally, your prosthetist will fit you for the best possible comfort level and ensure that your prosthetic feels good when worn day to day. The level of comfort is dependent on many things, including the location and level of your amputation, the condition of your residual limb, and your desired level of physical activity and functionality. In addition, there are certain conditions that will influence your prosthetic’s comfort, such as weather and environment.

Appearance

Appearance includes everything from the ‘uncovered’ look of the mechanical parts to a cosmetic cover that looks like a natural limb. Aesthetic appearances can help people with limb differences to blend in more easily with their peers and avoid comments. Some amputees may even have a more positive psychological outlook on the world when wearing a prosthetic than when using crutches or wheelchairs. This is because they feel less isolated and have a more positive body image when wearing their prosthetics.

Functionality

A prosthetic has to be functional and able to mimic the way your body works. For example, a prosthetic hand needs to be able to translate brain signals that get the fingers to work. The size and shape of your residual limb will determine the shape of your prosthetic socket, which is the part of the prosthesis where your residual limb fits. It is important that your prosthetic fits properly because it allows for the best use of your limb and avoids friction, swelling or skin damage that can make it difficult to function with your prosthesis.

Cost

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a prosthetic is cost. This is because a prosthetic is not mass-produced and must be tailored to each individual patient. This means that it has to be crafted from materials such as acrylic resin, carbon fiber, thermoplastics, silicone, aluminum, or titanium. Depending on the patient, it may also be designed with features such as a foam cover that mimics the appearance of the real limb. As a result, the cost of the prosthetic is often much higher than an off-the-shelf choice would be. This is due to the labor required to design and make the prosthetic and to the material costs involved.