Preparing for Your Prosthesis
A prosthesis is the device that’s going to replace your leg. It’s going to be custom made just for you. Your height, weight, activity level, the size of your residual limb, and your lifestyle will all be taken into consideration.
Your health will determine when you get fit for your prosthesis and how effectively you will be able to use it. The stronger you are the better. The prosthetic process can only begin once your wounds and suture lines are closed and all drainage has been eliminated.
Your residual limb is what remains of your leg on the amputated side. Your sound limb is the non-amputated side. The stronger both limbs are, the more successful you will be with your prosthesis. There are four things you should do immediately following surgery to prepare your residual limb for prosthetic use:
Limb Hygiene and Care
Volume Control – Reduce Swelling
Prevent Muscle Contractures
Get Strong
