Body In Motion is dedicated to helping you make the best choices for health and mobility. Today we’re going to share some vital, need-to-know information about leg prostheses as well as some considerations you’ll likely make as you move through the process of getting your new prosthesis fitted.
The decision to use a leg prosthetic is a deeply personal one. And at Body In Motion, we’re dedicated to helping you make the best choices for your particular body and needs.
Today we’re going to explore a few types of leg prosthetics and some considerations you’ll likely make as you move through the process of getting your new limb replacement.
As always, if you have any questions you can always reach out to our team here.
Now, let’s dive in.
The decision to use a leg prosthetic is a deeply personal one. And at Body In Motion, we’re dedicated to helping you make the best choices for your particular body and needs.
Today we’re going to explore a few types of leg prosthetics and some considerations you’ll likely make as you move through the process of getting your new limb replacement.
As always, if you have any questions you can always reach out to our team here.
Now, let’s dive in.
What Are The Best Leg Prosthetics?
The best leg prosthetic for you will depend on a variety of factors including the reason for your amputation, the location of the amputation, and your daily levels of activity. Those who enjoy running, swimming, or other forms of exercise may have different prosthetic needs than those who don’t take on those types of activities.
You must connect with your Doctor or Licensed Prosthetist to explore the best approach for your prosthetic needs.
What Are The Different Types Of Prosthetic Legs?
The two main types of leg prosthetics are above-the-knee prosthetics and below-the-knee prosthetics. Depending on the location of the amputation and your desired level of mobility you may choose one type of prosthetic over another.
Some types of prosthetics have shock absorption, knees with microprocessors (AKA bionic knees), force sensors, and even dynamic feet with microprocessors.
How Does A Prosthetic Leg Work?
Prosthetic legs work by attaching to the body where a limb would be and providing mobility in ways that mimic the original limb. Regardless of the technology level of your prosthetics, they typically have some key parts.
Leg Prosthetic Socket
This is the structural interface of your prosthetic and where it will connect with your body. It is truly the sign of a great Prosthetist to achieve the right fit without you experiencing pain.
Prosthetic Suspension System
This is how your body is connected to the prosthetic limb, whether that be through suction or vacuum suspension, distal locking, or a sleeve suction system.
Prosthetic Knee Joint (Depending On The Location Of Amputation)
This is the most mobile part of your new limb. Some prosthetic limbs have microprocessors while others rely on a knee-locking system where you decide to lock or unlock the flexible part of your device.
Prosthetic Foot or Terminal Device
This is the end of your prosthetic limb. Some foot portions of prosthetics have impact sensors, some provide a flexible foot, and still, others are designed for specific activities like running.
Body In Motion works with our clients to determine their unique needs and challenges. Then we collaborate with you to design and fit the right prosthetic for you.
How Expensive Are Prosthetic Legs?
While some estimates put the cost of a new prosthetic leg at $6,000-$50,000, your prosthetic specialist will be able to explore cost with you and help you navigate insurance as well. It’s important to recognize that the limb will need to be replaced over time so the best practice is to work with a prosthetic expert along the way.
How To Get A Prosthetic Leg
The first step in obtaining a prosthetic leg is to speak with one of our Licensed Prosthetists at Body In Motion, there is no charge for this consultation and we can help guide you throughout this process, including referral to the proper Physician for documentation and insurance purposes. It is also helpful to see the office where you will receive your care, and the technical Lab where it is fabricated; we hand make all devices at our state of the art Lab, which is located in Toms River.
When you connect with your health care team you’ll be able to work with them to find the right prosthetic for you.
After a consultation and full medical history, you’ll move through the evaluation, casting, and prosthetic fitting phases. You’ll learn to navigate the world with your new prosthetic and your care team will work to make adjustments for your highest level of comfort and mobility.
If you’re ready to get started, reach out to The Body In Motion Team at 1-888-272-2303 and we’ll connect to explore your leg prosthetic options.