A prosthesis is an artificial device that replaces a missing body part, which may be lost through trauma, disease, or congenital conditions. Prosthetic amputee rehabilitation is primarily coordinated by a prosthetist and an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals including psychiatrists, surgeons, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.
A transtibial prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces a leg missing below the knee. Transtibial amputees are usually able to regain normal movement more readily than someone with a transfemoral amputation, due in large part to retaining the knee, which allows for easier movement. Lower extremity prosthetics describe artificially replaced limbs located at the hip level or lower.
In the prosthetic industry, a transtibial prosthetic leg is often referred to as a “BK” or below-the-knee prosthesis while the transfemoral prosthetic leg is often referred to as an “AK” or above-the-knee prosthesis.
Other, less prevalent lower extremity cases include the following: Hip disarticulations – This usually refers to when an amputee or congenitally challenged patient has either an amputation or anomaly at or in close proximity to the hip joint. Knee disarticulations – This usually refers to an amputation through the knee disarticulating the femur from the tibia.
The majority of prosthetic devices are for below-the-knee amputees an intimate socket fit will provide improved comfort and gait patterns. Prosthetic devices commonly use silicone, urethane, or elastomeric gels to fit direct to the residual limb and hold the prosthetic device with or without pin locks. Elevated vacuum socket use is also on the rise and the intimate fit provides better blood flow to the residue limb for greater limb health for the amputee.
A transfemoral prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces a leg missing above the knee. Transfemoral amputees can have a very difficult time regaining normal movement. In general, a transfemoral amputee must use approximately 80% more energy to walk than a person with two whole legs.
This is due to the complexities in movement associated with the knee. In newer and more improved designs, hydraulics, carbon fiber, mechanical linkages, motors, computer microprocessors, and innovative combinations of these technologies are employed to give more control to the user.
In the prosthetic industry, a transfemoral prosthetic leg is often referred to as an “AK” or above-the-knee prosthesis.
A transradial prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces an arm missing below the elbow. Two main types of prosthetics are available.
Cable operated limbs work by attaching a harness and cable around the opposite shoulder of the damaged arm. The other form of prosthetics available is myoelectric arms.
These work by sensing, via electrodes, when the muscles in the upper arm move, causing an artificial hand to open or close. In the prosthetic industry, a trans-radial prosthetic arm is often referred to as a “BE” or below elbow prosthesis.
A transhumeral prosthesis is an artificial limb that replaces an arm missing above the elbow.
Transhumeral amputees experience some of the same problems as transfemoral amputees, due to the similar complexities associated with the movement of the elbow.
This makes mimicking the correct motion with an artificial limb very difficult. In the prosthetic industry, a transhumeral prosthesis is often referred to as an “AE” or above-the-elbow prosthesis.
GlideWear by Tamarack Habilitation Technologies is a breakthrough in the treatment and prevention of skin trauma. GlideWear technology reduces shear stresses in at-risk areas of human tissue to promote wound healing and prevent tissue damage altogether.
Initially introduced as a shear management technology for wheelchair cushion covers, GlideWear is now under development as a prosthetic liner interface for transtibial amputees and for users of knee braces.
The Rooke® Below-Knee Rigid Protector with Soft Interface amputee residual limb protector is a perfect choice for immediate use after a below-knee amputation. It maintains the limb in a very secure, yet neutral, extended position to reduce the risk of flexion contracture. It incorporates stable foam protection throughout for reduced risk of injury resulting from a fall. It is also contoured behind the knee for additional support. The Rooke® Rigid Protector is also adjustable for a variety of limb sizes.
The Rooke BK Rigid Protector helps to:
The N-Abler II ™ is the “Heart” of the N-Abler ™ Tool and Implement System. With the N-Abler II ™ capability to flex 60 ˚, the end user is able to maneuver tools into a safe comfortable position for use without distorting their body to do so. A real Frustration Factor Fixer!
Existing or new patients can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 830-433-9188 or use our online form.
