What Is a Prosthetist?
Much like medical doctors, a prosthetist has a specific kind of training but deals much more in depth with the lower and upper extremities. Prosthetists design and fit devices that are medically supportive to those who are disabled. A prosthetist is a healthcare professional who works with your primary care provider to support you.
The Roles of the Prosthetist and Orthotist
As a healthcare professional, the prosthetist makes artificial limbs called prosthesis. These limbs are developed for people with disabilities, including specially-fitted artificial arms and legs. Those who have had amputations from cancer, diabetes or other injuries can often benefit from an artificial limb.
The orthotist designs and fabricates supportive devices as well but makes and fits sprints and braces for people who have disease or injury related damage. Orthotists fit braces that are called AFOs (ankle foot orthosis) and KAFO, (knee ankle foot orthosis) or long-legged brace. They also specialize in a Halo brace that surrounds the head, which helps stabilize the neck and prevent further damage to the spinal cord.
Both prosthetists and orthotists receive a great deal of training in order to make these life-enhancing devices. They practice in a variety of settings such as a private practice, inpatient and outpatient rehab centers, hospitals, and industrial health centers. There are certainly some advantages to having prosthetic limbs as well as benefit from programs for amputees. These can provide intentional physical and emotional support that is not always available through the general community.
Is a Prosthetist a Doctor?
A prosthetist is a healthcare professional that specializes in a specific line of work within the healthcare industry. When looking for a center for prosthetics Port St. Lucie specialist, you’ll want someone with extensive care in post-op care, upper and lower extremity. You’ll also find it comforting to know that this practice personalizes your fit. No two people are alike, so your prosthetist will make and customize your sock uniquely to you.
Prosthetists are more than just professionals specializing in artificial devices. These professionals understand the shock factor of accidents, as well as grief and loss, and deliver a great deal of support to the person needing to adjust to their new lifestyle. They can be a pillar of strength helping you ease into the fitted device, whether it’s a brace or a new limb, helping to normalize your new abilities.
Lastly, prosthetists and orthotists make it possible for anyone with mobility challenges to feel at ease when they come into the office. Disabilities affect each individual differently. For example, somebody that needs a carpal tunnel splint may feel just as immobile as somebody needing a prosthetic leg. Prosthetists help their patients see the value in these custom devices so they can feel like themselves again. Prosthetists are educated healthcare professionals who work with you and your healthcare provider to support your recovery, whatever your unique needs..
When To Use a Prosthetist
Nowadays there are more options with prosthetic devices, making them customizable for anyone. Unfortunate circumstances happen, but an artificial limb can provide a certain mobility someone once had. Whatever the tragedy, a center for prosthetics Port St. Lucie expert will fit you with a device that helps you get moving again. The prosthetists and orthotics assist in a variety of rehabilitation services so you can adapt to life with a prosthetic.
Whether you need prosthetics services or you have a question, nothing is too ordinary for our center for prosthetics Port St Lucie professionals. The team at Fenton Prosthetics and Orthotics offers care and assistance for a variety of disabilities. They provide personalized care in a rehab setting while providing you with the most comfortable fit. Give them a call today!
