At the request of your physician, we will meet with you prior to your surgery to discuss prosthetic options, outline a time frame for prosthetic visits, and even set up a meeting with an experienced amputee to discuss the road ahead. Many times, this is your first introduction to the field of prosthetics.

We’ll examine your residual limb, study your medical records, and ask you about your work and leisure activity levels, as well as your goals and hobbies. Our prosthetic evaluation follows Medicare’s Functional Classification Level, or K level, which is a standard method of defining a patient’s limb functioning needs. We’ll also contact your insurance provider on your behalf to determine if pre-authorization is necessary.

Based on a patient’s functional level, job, hobbies, and insurance coverage, we can determine the best possible prosthesis to meet your needs.

A cast or 3D digital scan is taken of your limb in order to create a negative impression. This is turned into a mold that resembles your limb. We’ll then modify the mold to ensure that a patient’s limb can comfortably and structurally withstand your everyday activities.

Using the mold of your residual limb, a diagnostic check socket is fabricated out of a clear plastic. This allows us to see inside the socket for proper fit and total contact. Proper fit is critical to the prosthesis’ performance and your comfort. The plastic socket is also “heat-moldable” in case changes are necessary to improve fit or comfort. Once a good fit is achieved, we’ll go back to our lab to add other components needed to complete the functioning prosthesis.

It’s time to fit you with your complete prosthesis. We’ll check its static and dynamic alignment to your body and its ability to function as needed. We’ll have you perform basic weight-shifting movements to assess your comfort and mobility level. This should also give you your first sense of achievement. We’ll then explain all of your prosthesis’ components and their purpose. We’ll provide you with complete instructions – both verbally and in writing — on how to care for and use your prosthesis. We’ll answer all of your questions and then set up future follow-up appointments. If necessary, we can contact your physical therapy team to continue your gait training program.