Prosthetic legs, or prostheses, can help people with leg amputations get around more easily. They mimic the function and, sometimes, even the appearance of a real leg. Some people still need a cane, walker or crutches to walk with a prosthetic leg, while others can walk freely.
If you have a lower limb amputation, or you will soon, a prosthetic leg is probably an option you’re thinking about. Amputee rehabilitation specialist Mary Keszler, M.D., shares a few considerations you should take into account first.
Not Everyone Benefits from a Prosthetic Leg
While many people with limb loss do well with their prosthetic legs, not everyone is a good candidate for a leg prosthesis. A few questions you may want to discuss with your doctor before opting for a prosthetic leg include:
Is there enough soft tissue to cushion the remaining bone?
How much pain are you in?
What is the condition of the skin on the limb?
How much range of motion does the residual limb have?
Is the other leg healthy?
What was your activity level before the amputation?
What are your mobility goals?
The type of amputation (above or below the knee) can also affect your decision. It’s generally easier to use a below-the-knee prosthetic leg than an above-the-knee prosthesis. “If the knee joint is intact, the prosthetic leg takes much less effort to move and allows for more mobility,” explains Keszler.
The reason behind the amputation is also a factor, as it may impact the health of the residual limb. Your physical health and lifestyle are also important to consider. If you were not very active and lost your leg due to peripheral vascular disease or diabetes, for example, you will struggle more with a prosthesis than someone who was extremely active but lost a limb in a car accident.
When it comes to amputation, each person is unique. The decision to move forward with a prosthesis should be a collaborative one between you and your doctor.
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