4 Steps To Acquiring A Prosthesis

Amputation of a limb is a last resort. When illness or injury damages a limb to the extent that it will never recover and will continue to cause the body harm, amputation is sometimes the best course of action for the patient. Facing an amputation can be frightening and alarming. You may have many questions about how you'll manage and recover following your surgery. Fortunately, there have never been better prosthetic options available. Here are four things you can expect from your journey in acquiring a prosthesis following orthopedic amputation surgery.

1. You will be given a temporary prosthesis.

Directly following your surgery, you'll need time to recover. Some amputation surgeries require more healing time than others. In general, larger body parts will take longer to heal than smaller ones. You won't be able to be fitted for your final prosthesis directly after your surgery since your tissues are still healing and changing. Most patients experience swelling at the amputation site for up to several months after their surgery.

2. You will need to attend follow-up visits with your orthopedist.

Your orthopedic surgeon will want to monitor your recovery closely. They will want to check the surgical site to ensure it's healing correctly. Proper care can help stave off infections and other potential complications, so it's important that you follow all your doctor's instructions. Don't skip any of your follow-up visits, since these are crucial to your recovery and continuing health.

3. Your doctor will discuss your prosthetic options with you.

There are many different types of prostheses available. The type you choose will depend on the degree of amputation you underwent, as well as the activities you typically partake in on a daily basis. If you're a runner, you will probably want two prostheses: one for daily use and one that is more streamlined for running.

4. You will be measured for your prosthesis.

Your doctor will carefully measure your remaining limb to ensure the prosthesis you receive will fit you perfectly. Ill-fitting prostheses can cause all sorts of problems, from chafing to sores and infections. Your doctor may also take photographs to supplement the measurements they take, which will help the manufacturer craft a prosthesis to suit your exact needs. Each prosthesis is custom made for an excellent fit. Once your prosthesis is finished, you'll have the opportunity to try it on, which will allow your doctor to make any necessary last-minute adjustments to the device

For more information about prosthetics, contact a company like Bio  Tech Prosthetics and Orthotics.