Moving Around: Types of Prosthetic Limbs
Maybe you’ve seen artificial limbs in the form of arms and legs before. But with technology advancing, prosthetic limbs are also taking on some new advancements. We have come so far with technology that we can now expect these artificial limbs to be almost identical to a former limb.
Main Types of Prosthesis
There are four main types of prosthesis, including: transfemoral, trans-stibial, transhumeral, and transradial prosthesis. These limbs must maintain strength and high-quality materials to withstand wear and tear of constant use as well as the person’s weight. As each individual gets comfortable in their new skin, prostheses are made to conform to the person’s lifestyle.
A transfemoral prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces an amputated limb above the knee. Because most transfemoral amputees have a difficult time gaining momentum at first, these new-and-improved designs consist of sturdy construction, such as carbon fiber, motors, hydraulics, mechanical linkages, and even computer microprocessors. This type of amputee uses at least 80% more energy walking than someone with two whole legs.
A transhumeral prosthesis assists a person missing a segment from the shoulder to the hand. Depending on the needs and goals of the patient, the type of control system is carefully planned. They need more body power to force the body to operate the device with the help of external power that is electrified by a contracting muscle.
Transtibial prosthesis assists the person with a below-the-knee to the floor amputee. The socket is suspended in four different ways, such as locking liner, suspension sleeve, elevated vacuum, and supracondylar. This prosthetic is more intimate and provides a comfortable fit for the patient.
A transradial prosthesis is a below-the-elbow prosthetic that includes the hand. This type of prosthetic uses external and body power in a combination to work with the patient’s goals and needs.
Other Forms of Prosthesis
You may have seen or heard of partial hand or foot prostheses. A partial foot prosthesis includes any level of amputation within the foot. A specialist in prosthetic limbs Port St. Lucie will evaluate and decide which function is best for you. Partial hand is much like partial foot in terms of proper evaluation, and may be difficult to fit, depending on the level of severity. Because there are few partial hand amputations on the market, this level of amputation needs careful evaluation to design a technique that is appropriate for the client. The way that this works is through an evaluation that would take place during your initial visit.
Regardless of the prosthesis, this lifestyle takes some getting used to. With the help and care of a certified prosthetist, you can get the functional and emotional support you need to live as close a life as possible to your former “normal.” There is no one-size-fits-all, and your prosthetic limbs Port St. Lucie expert knows how to get you accustomed. Physical and emotional comfort go hand-in-hand when living your new life as an amputee, and it’s highly important to reach out to your prosthetists for this ongoing support during this time.
From prosthetics to orthotics, it’s all about comfort and mobility. The more comfortable you are in your daily activities, the easier it is for you to feel at ease performing those tasks. It’s highly important to find a prosthetist who knows much about comfort and mobility and is willing to help you find that healthy balance. At Fenton Prosthetics, we understand that your lifestyle, goals, needs, and abilities coincide with your new way of life. Contact us today for more information, from orthotic care to prosthetics and more.
