More Prosthetic Information

Prosthetics are devices that need to work with you. We offer a wide range of prosthetic products to meet each patient’s unique needs. Our prosthetists will then help you customize the best fit for your prosthetic. Contact us today and let us find the right prosthetic for you. Our certified prosthetists conduct a complete assessment of your needs, ensuring the prosthesis work is tailored to your health, lifestyle, and goals. Looking for care instructions? Check out our care manuals.

What are prosthetics?

Prosthetics, also known as artificial limbs, are custom-designed devices created to replace missing or damaged limbs and restore both mobility and independence. Whether you require a prosthetic leg, arm, or another type of prosthetic limb, each device is carefully tailored to your unique needs, taking into account your lifestyle, daily living activities, and the specific shape of your residual limb. A prosthetic device helps regain function and confidence, allowing you to live your life to the fullest. By working closely with your prosthetist, you can ensure your artificial limb is designed to support your functional goals and provide the best possible fit and comfort.

Parts of a prosthetic

Various components make up a prosthetic. These parts are customizable, for example, the material used or the shape and more. The components include the liner, suspension, socket, the hand/foot and also other components. The following is how each part of the prosthetic is modifiable for your best fit.

Liner

A liner will fit over the amputated limb. The liner plays a key role in attaching the prosthetic device securely to the residual limb, ensuring stability and comfort. It also helps protect the limb from the socket by adding a barrier. A liner will then fit into a suspension to connect to the prosthetic. These materials include:

Silicone

This material is highly stable and is also able to provide good adhesion for a limb with lots of soft tissue. It is also best to use silicone liners with shuttle-lock suspension. Soft and resistant to pressure, it is also durable and easy to clean. Additionally, this liner is ideal for people with low to moderate activity levels

Polyurethane

A polyurethane liner is able to distribute pressure in the liner more evenly throughout the entire liner. It is also able to direct pressure away from high-pressure areas. Polyurethane has a comfortable, well-fitted and precise feel. It is also comfortable for all residual limb types. For any sensitive or scarred limbs, polyurethane is also an ideal material. It is also used with vacuum or suction suspensions. Also, it requires a Total Surface Bearing (TSB) socket. It is also recommended for individuals with low to high activity levels.

Copolymer

A soft, cushiony and also quite elastic material. It is also friendly for limbs that are dry as it contains a skin-friendly oil. Works best with a pin or suction suspension. Also, it provides good protection for low-activity individuals.

Suspension

The suspension is a sleeve that fits over the liner. It is also the main way the limb connects to the socket or creates a seal. The following are the different types of suspensions:

Vacuum

This type of suspension forms a seal with the socket’s top edge. Then a vacuum pump and valve will be used to remove the air between the sleeve and the socket. This creates a vacuum that then firmly holds the sleeve to the socket. The vacuum also has the added benefit of improving circulation. It also reduces shear, and regulated the volume changes of the residual limb.

Shuttle-lock

For this suspension, a pin on the sleeve connects to the lock on the bottom of the socket. For above the knee prostheses, we will use a lanyard system. This allows straps to pull the liner into the socket.

Suction

• Uses a one-way valve, a sealing sleeve and a soft liner. When the sleeve-covered limb is put into the prosthetic, the body weight pushes air out of the valve. This will then create a secure and stable seal with the socket. It also has reduced friction and shear.

Socket

There are various ways we can personalize a socket for you. Sockets are the most critical component for comfort in prosthetics and are custom-made to fit the unique residual limb shape of each user, ensuring a comfortable, secure fit and effective force distribution. First, our prosthetists will work with you to shape the socket to best fit you. Multiple designs are available. They include elevated vacuum, flexible inner, KISS systems and also Revolimb. We are also able to personalize your sockets with a graphic. If the graphic can be printed on fabric, it can then be put onto your socket.

What is a prosthetic made of?

For an arm or leg prosthetic, various components can be changed to best fit your situation. These include the materials, types of limbs and more.

Materials

A limb can be made with a variety of materials. These include wood, plastic, foam and also carbon fiber. Modern prosthetic products often use advanced lightweight materials like carbon fiber and titanium, providing benefits such as improved comfort, mobility, and energy efficiency for users. Wood, plastic and also foam are more common for people who need something with high stability and low activity.

Carbon fiber

A lightweight material, it is used commonly in high active scenarios. It also provides good shock absorption. Carbon fiber feet are also designed to store energy. Depending on the prosthetic, then two springs are put into the foot. A spring in the heel and also another one in the forefoot. This means when you step down, the energy is stored and also provides an easier time lifting the foot. This can help with walking, running, and it also gives you more confidence in your step. The longer the spring, then the more responsive it is.

Terminal limbs

Multi-axial limb

In comparison to a single axial limb, a multi-axial limb is closer to a natural wrist/ankle in function. For example the forefoot is able to be lifted and lowered, rotated, and also rolled slightly. This also means a more comfortable walking experience and also a better walking experience on uneven surfaces.

Prosthetic Maintenance

Maintaining your prosthetic device is essential for ensuring its comfort, function, and longevity. Regular cleaning and inspection of your prosthetic components can help prevent skin irritation, mechanical problems, and discomfort. It’s important to work closely with your prosthetist to develop a maintenance routine that fits your needs, including scheduling follow-up appointments to check for wear and tear or to make necessary adjustments. Addressing any issues promptly can help you avoid more significant problems down the line. Additionally, being aware of the potential costs associated with repairs, replacements, or upgrades will help you plan for the long-term care of your device and ensure you continue to benefit from optimal function and support.

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