A prosthesis is an artificial device that replaces a missing limb or other part of the body. Learning about prosthetic devices
can be confusing for both the person with a recent amputation and for someone who has had an amputation for a long time. The
parts of the prosthesis are referred to as components, and they are changing all the time. Each year prosthetic manufacturers
design new components, and each type of component may be similar but have different brand names.
Doctors, therapists and prosthetists provide advice on particular types of prosthesis. But to be informed, you must know the
language. Below is a listing of the basic, lower-limb prosthetic parts.
Socket: This is the part of the prosthesis that comes in contact with your limb. It may or may not have an additional part called
an insert or liner.
Suspension: This is what fastens the prosthesis to your residual limb.
Hip: For those patients that have hip disarticulations, this is the mechanical joint that replaces your hip joint.
Knee: For patients that have above-the-knee amputations, this is the mechanical joint that replaces your knee joint.
Shank: This is the part of the prosthesis between the knee and foot. It can be either a metal pipe covered with foam or a hard,
hollow tube.
Foot/Ankle: This part of your prosthesis comes in contact with the ground and provides movement. It may allow movement at the ankle itself,
or the foot may be flexible to allow movement.
Some things to remember when deciding on a prosthesis:
- Weight plays a big role. Sometimes, the high-tech parts can weigh more. For some people, the added weight will counteract
the benefit of the high-tech performance.
- Insurance plays a role, too. Not all insurance companies pay for all parts. But they usually will pay for a comparable part
if there is good justification from your physician.
- There are new prosthetic parts being introduced all the time. When you get a new prosthesis, you should try to find out what
has changed since your last prosthesis was made.
- Maintenance is a factor, too. If your new part is less durable, you must be willing to have regular maintenance. Also, some
of the more moveable parts require more maintenance.
