Getting Used to Your Artificial Leg
Prosthetics are a lifeline to many Americans dealing with life after an amputation surgery. Learning to live with one does take time, though, and requires the help of a knowledgeable medical professional called a prosthetist. If a prosthetic is in your future, here’s what you might expect while getting used to your artificial leg.
When the process for your artificial leg will start
Patience will be in the cards throughout the process of getting used to your artificial leg. That process won’t begin until your remaining limb is completely healed from surgery which could take six months or more. Once it’s healed, you’ll be fitted for your prosthetic and begin physical therapy with it. This therapy will last a year or more as you learn to live with your prosthetic.
Many kinds of prosthetics available
A very encouraging thing in the field of prosthetics is just how quickly science and technology are advancing. There are artificial legs for all kinds of adaptations including those made especially for running, swimming, or everyday use. If you had a very active life before your surgery, it’s possible to have an active and fulfilling life after surgery.
Plenty of people will be there to help along the way
After your surgery, you’ll have many follow-up appointments with your surgeon to check on your healing and progress. Once you’re healed, you’ll have many more appointments with your prosthetist as you learn to use your artificial leg. You’ll also have plenty of face time with your physical therapist, and you can even look into joining a group of other amputees in your community for support through the transition. There are plenty of people around you that will serve as your support structure as you learn your new normal.
Anything is possible with your artificial leg
If you’re facing life with a prosthetic leg, it’s important to remember that life will be different, but it can still be meaningful and full of adventure. There are a great many stories of amputee patients going on to do great things in the world like competing in the Olympics, and even working as a model. The sky is still the limit no matter what trials you face.
