For amputees, understand the basic parts of a prosthetic leg as well as the general functionality of the parts carries the weight. Put differently, the it paves the way for an amputee to put their replacement legs to the the very best use. Taking advantage of a limb would for the most part take several months or years, a period during which an amputee is faced with high learning curve of acquainting themselves their legs. With the synopsis given thus regarding the major components of a limb, utilizing one would seem pretty much like an apple pie:
The Limb
The limb or better yet, the leg itself is the main part of a prosthetic leg. It is constructed with body weight, size of limb, amputee’s health, level of amputation, preferences and center of gravity in mind in order to make it a fit for the user. It comes in two major types which are limbs fixed above the knees and ones fixed below the knees. Take foot prosthesis at the hip disarticulation and foot level while the former falls under the first category, the latter falls under the second category. It is made of underweight materials for ease of movement. The color from amputee to amputee differs. Typically, it is designed in colors matching the skin of the person that will wear it. But the ones designed for people who engage in sports usually come in several colors.
The Socket
This component is attached to the end of the prosthetic leg that that is fitted into the residual limb. It functions as a connector linking the prosthetic and the body. Sockets which are made of casts with the residual limb in mind loosen and wear out over time. It is updated over a given space of time not just to make up for the tear and wear but also to adjust to to changes in body weight. Laxed or not properly fitted, it will induce pain at the residual limb and or cause imbalance. It is recommended that an amputee speaks to their prosthetist when experiencing they have slacked socket.
Feet and Knees
Stability and balance mainly depend on the knees and feet of a prosthetic leg. Sophisticated knees and feet come with advanced microprocessors which is highly sensitive to the moves made by an amputee. Such devices have the ability to adjust to running and walking speed. Manual locking knees are great for maintaining a substantial level of stability.
