After limb loss, many things may change in a person's daily life. In this period, the prosthetic process is a step-by-step whole that covers physical preparation, selection of an appropriate device and rehabilitation. The general stages of this process are summarized below for informational purposes.
The Pre-Prosthetic Period
Before prosthetic fitting begins, it is important that the person is prepared physically and psychologically. The main steps that stand out in this period are the following:
- Taking the health history (anamnesis) and clinical assessment
- Postoperative wound follow-up and residual limb care
- Bandaging aimed at reducing edema
- Exercises aimed at increasing joint range of motion, strength and endurance
Because infection and healing problems can occur after amputation surgery, wound follow-up and residual limb care are carried out carefully in this process; management of swelling (edema) that may be seen in the residual limb is also important in this period.
Measurement and Fitting
Appropriate prosthetic components are determined taking into account the general health status, the shape of the residual limb and physical assessments. This selection is made in line with the physician's prescription and medical report. After individual measurements are taken, prosthetic fitting may be carried out with a test socket for fit and shaping of the residual limb before moving on to the definitive socket.
Prosthetic Training and Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is important from the very beginning of the process. Accompanied by a physiotherapist, hands-on training is given, such as gait training on uneven ground, using ramps and going up and down stairs. The aim is to support the person's independence by developing daily living skills.
All of these stages are planned individually, based on the specialist physician's assessment and under the supervision of a physiotherapist.
This content is for informational purposes only; you should consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
