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Preparatory Prosthesis

  • Transtibial
  • Transfemoral

A preparatory prosthesis is provided to allow the patient to relearn the mechanics of walking.  The design of the device takes into consideration the patient’s physical health and their potential for functional ambulation combined with their mobility needs.  Factors such as motivation, occupation, and residual limb condition are just a few considerations that influence the design of a device. During the initial 3 to 6 months of prosthetic use, changes to the residual limb size often occurs necessitating frequent follow-up and adjustments to optimize ones performance.  Information learned during use of the preparatory prosthesis helps factor greatly into the design of a definitive device.

A transtibial prosthesis is a custom-made device comprised of a socket to contain and support a below the knee residual limb during weight bearing.  The socket is often designed with a locking gel liner that provides device suspension and protection to the soft tissues, increasing comfort and working to avoid skin problems from developing.  These systems are adjustable, allowing changes between the socket and prosthetic foot, to align the device as ones walking performance improves.  The prosthetic foot is chosen based on the functional needs of the patient in their community and work environments.

A transfemoral prosthesis is a custom made device designed to provide support to an above the knee residual limb during weight bearing.  Gel liners are often used to suspend the prosthesis and provide protection to the residual limbs soft tissues.  A number of prosthetic knee and foot options are available based on the functional needs of the patient to restore their mobility.