What To Expect When You Get A Prosthethic Leg
Losing a valuable part of your anatomy such as your leg is never easy. Being an amputee can be difficult but the good news is that getting a prosthetic leg can allow you to live a normal life once again. If you're wondering what to expect, there are a few things you should bear in mind to make sure that you are comfortable with your new prosthetic limb. Here's what you need to know.
Parts of a Prosthetic Leg
Your prosthetic leg will have various parts. There will be the leg itself which is made of very lightweight materials. Depending on where the amputation was done, the prosthetic leg may have functional knee or ankle joints.
There is usually a socket attached to the leg. This is a mold of a part of your remaining limb that is customized so that the prosthetic leg can be attached to it.
Rehabilitation Is Necessary
Once you get your prosthetic legs this does not automatically mean that you will be able to walk. You will need to strengthen your legs and learn how to walk with the new leg. There is a learning curve involved, but with the help of a physical therapist and your doctor, you will get through it.
A plan will be created to help you achieve your goal of walking with your prosthetic leg. Physical therapy is often necessary because you need to keep your leg strength.
Getting Comfortable
The rehabilitation process will help you to get more comfortable with your prosthetic leg. However, there are a few challenges that you should expect to experience. You may experience sweating in the area where the leg is connected. Also, there may be some weakness in any remaining limb, as well as phantom pain. Phantom pain is pain that seems to come from the amputated leg, this is a common experience.
Additionally, you may also experience some changes in the shape of the remaining limb. This can affect how well the prosthetic fits and you may end up needing a new one. Even with all these challenges, you can overcome them with the help of professionals that are there to support you and guide you through your therapy.
Find the Right Prosthetic
Getting the right prosthetic leg can completely change your life for the better when you are an amputee. It can allow you a greater level of mobility and freedom. You may experience some challenges but you can overcome them with a little determination and good professional help.
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