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Prosthetics 101

If you’re a new amputee (or a friend or family member), you have many questions. What happens next? What can I expect? Can I resume activities I used to enjoy? Many of those questions are best answered by your prosthetist and the rest of your health care team as they create your treatment plan. You can also take a look at Info for New Amputees elsewhere on this site.

But what about the prosthetic devices themselves? Whether you’re a new amputee or have been using prosthetic systems for many years, you may not be aware of all the recent exciting advancements in the development of artificial limbs. Breakthroughs have come in new materials and new electronics, as well as new kinds of therapies.

Today’s prosthetics have a wide range of functions and benefits that can help you achieve your desired activity level and lifestyle. It’s important to have a basic understanding of how a prosthetic system works, and the technologies available to you.

  • Top three ways to get the most out of your prothesis Does your prosthesis work well for you? Or not? For most people, there are 3 critical factors that make the difference.

  • Computer controlled knees Prosthetic knees controlled by microcomputer technology have set the standard for stability and ease of use, especially for people who want to resume an active life.

  • About feet Today’s prosthetic feet, including many that mimic the action of an anatomical foot and add other benefits, can help you meet your activity goals.

  • How liners work For someone who wears a lower limb prosthesis, liners are key to comfort. They also combine with the suspension system to connect your limb to the prosthesis.

  • Keeping your leg on Various forces are at work in a prosthetic socket, the shell that encases your residual limb and connects you to the rest of your prosthesis. Different suspension systems have varying control over two forces that can cause pressure points or sores: rotation and shear.

  • Myoelectric Upper Limb Prosthetics 101 The latest myoelectric prostheses offer incredible functionality, providing improved control and better looks.

  • What to consider when it's time for a new prosthetic knee No matter what you rely on your prosthetic knee to help you do, there’s no doubt your knee is an integral part of your life. When it comes time to replace it, you owe it to yourself to consider your options thoughtfully.

  • Wellness What is wellness? It’s really about balancing the different parts of your life that allow you to live to your fullest potential.