A prosthetic leg is an application that can support an individual's activities of daily living and mobility. The right solution is determined according to the person's amputation level, physical condition and lifestyle, in line with the specialist physician's assessment and prescription. To review the levels and components together, you can see the Prosthetic Leg main page.
Amputation Level and Types of Prostheses
One of the main factors affecting prosthesis selection is the level of amputation. In general, the following types are distinguished:
- Below-knee (transtibial) prosthetic leg: The person's own knee joint is preserved; no prosthetic knee is used.
- Above-knee (transfemoral) prosthetic leg: Because the natural knee joint is not preserved, a prosthetic knee component is needed.
- Hip disarticulation prosthesis: A more extensive system that includes prosthetic hip, knee and foot components.
Which type is suitable is decided following the physician's examination and an individual assessment.
Socket Fit and Components
The socket provides the connection between the prosthesis and the body and is important for comfort; as discussed in the article on types of prosthetic sockets, which describes different approaches, changes in residual limb volume, skin condition and activity level are taken into account in socket fit.
For the knee joint, there are mechanical or microprocessor-controlled joints; comparing the differences between mechanical and microprocessor knees makes the choice easier to understand. For the foot, rigid, articulated or energy-storing options may be considered. The appropriate component is determined according to the person's mobility level.
Adaptation Process and Care
Developing the ability to walk with a prosthesis may require time and regular rehabilitation. In this process, physical and psychosocial adaptation are the aim, with the support of physiotherapy.
In the long term, daily cleaning, socket hygiene, periodic technician check-ups and adjustments when necessary are important. All applications and assessments are carried out in line with the relevant specialist physician's medical report and prescription.
This content is for informational purposes; for diagnosis and treatment, you should consult your physician.
