If you’re thinking about a prosthetic limb as a result of amputation surgery, it’s natural to have questions. Although approximately 185,000 people undergo amputation surgery each year, there are unfortunately many misconceptions about how prosthetic devices work. Understanding the reality of prosthetics promotes your well-being, fosters better support, and reduces stigma.
Prosthetic limbs typically last three to five years due to bodily changes and wear. They require adjustments for growth, weight changes, and aging. Mastering prosthetics demands extensive training and ongoing therapist support. Though expensive, most prosthetics are covered by insurance and financial aid to make them accessible. Comfort improves with adjustments. Prosthetic limbs suit all ages and enable sports, but can’t fully replicate natural limb functions.
Common Myths About Prosthetic Limbs
Many people think of prosthetic limbs as heavy, cumbersome objects, but modern materials have changed that. Common myths about prosthetics include being stuck with the same one forever, discomfort, difficulty of use, high cost, and being only for the elderly. Fortunately, it’s easy to debunk these misconceptions.
1. Once you have a prosthetic limb, you’re stuck with it
You may worry that you’ll be stuck with the same prosthetic limb your whole life. In truth, they usually only last an average of three to five years. This is due to several factors such as bodily changes as well as wear and tear. On the upside, technological advancements also mean newer, more effective prosthetic devices become available. This often makes older models obsolete.
Human bodies change over time due to:
- Growth
- Weight fluctuations
- Aging
This requires adjustments or replacements of the prosthetic device to maintain proper fit and function. Additionally, the materials and components of prosthetics undergo wear and tear from daily use, which can lead to mechanical failures or degradation over time. Regular maintenance and eventual replacement are thus necessary to ensure optimal performance and comfort.
2. Prosthetics are difficult to master
Some people worry that it’s difficult to learn how to use a prosthetic limb. While they take some getting used to, training and rehab like at Evansville Mobility Clinic makes them easier to use. Learning to operate a prosthetic involves mastering its mechanics and integrating it into everyday activities, which can be physically and mentally demanding.
Users must build:
- Strength
- Coordination
- Endurance
At the same time, they must adapt to the prosthetic’s limitations.
In most cases, therapists provide ongoing support to address fit adjustments and functional improvements, which can also make it more difficult to get used to a prosthetic. Without this intensive process, achieving optimal functionality and comfort is challenging.
3. Prosthetics are very expensive
It’s a common misconception that prosthetics are financially out of reach for many people. However, prosthetics are covered under the majority of insurance providers including medicare and Medicaid. High-tech and highly customized options indeed come with a hefty price tag, but there are more affordable and basic models designed to meet your essential needs.
Various programs provide financial support for prosthetic limbs, such as health insurance plans and non-profit organizations. This makes prosthetics much more accessible to the broader public. They help ensure that budget-friendly and subsidized solutions remain available for those who need them most.
4. Prosthetics are uncomfortable
You may have heard that prosthetics are inherently uncomfortable, but this isn’t true with modern options. Your new prosthesis is designed specifically to and for you. This ensures an appropriate and comfortable fit from the beginning. Additional adjustments will be made over time to maintain the appropriate fit and function to ensure comfort during daily use.
Your new prosthetic may not fit perfectly and comfortably from the start, but it’s only a matter of time before professional adjustments help you achieve optimal comfort.
Prosthetic users work closely with the prosthetics at Evansville Mobility Clinic to modify and ensure an intimate fit. This occurs during diagnostic “test” fittings prior to receiving the prosthesis you will take home for daily use. These fittings address pressure points and alignment issues.
Despite these efforts, some discomfort may persist, especially during the initial adaptation period. While not immediately comfortable, your prosthetic can be greatly improved with alterations and practice.
5. Prosthetics are only for the elderly
Prosthetics aren’t only for older people with this myth overlooking their diverse age range of users. They actually have a broad applicability across age groups, highlighting that prosthetic limbs serve a wide array of individuals beyond just the elderly.
People of all ages, including children and young adults, rely on prosthetics due to:
- Congenital conditions
- Accidents
- Illnesses
Pediatric prosthetics are designed to accommodate growth and development, ensuring young users can lead active lives. Similarly, young adults benefit from advanced prosthetic technologies that support dynamic lifestyles.
6. Prosthetics prevent you from playing sports
Having a prosthetic limb won’t leave you sitting on the sidelines. This myth is debunked by numerous athletes competing at high levels, including the Paralympics.
Specialized sports prosthetics are designed to meet the demands of various activities, including:
- Running
- Swimming
- Skiing
- Cycling
These advanced prosthetics enhance performance and provide the necessary support and flexibility for athletic endeavors. They allow athletes with prosthetic limbs to achieve remarkable feats. This demonstrates that prosthetic technology facilitates, rather than hinders, active and competitive lifestyles.
7. It’s too hard to adapt to a prosthetic device
Prosthetics are much easier to use as you gain more experience with them and they enhance your mobility. You’ll still have to adapt to differences even with advanced technology, and there will remain gaps in functionality and sensation. However, prosthetics are invaluable aids, that allow you to reclaim your life and capabilities in a new way.
Prosthetics in Evansville, Indiana
At Evansville Mobility Clinic, we provide customized prosthetics and personalized rehabilitation for exceptional mobility outcomes. We understand the emotional and physical challenges of amputation surgery and limb loss, offering tailored prosthetics and rehab plans to restore your independence and mobility. From your initial consultation to complete recovery, we provide expert care and effective therapy programs.
Our mobility experts combine advanced technology with compassionate, patient-first care. They prioritize your needs from day one with empathy and expertise. Expert prosthetist Jason Rider debunks myths about prosthetics while designing devices to fit your lifestyle, ensuring comfort and ease of use through innovative solutions. Our holistic approach includes comprehensive muscle therapy, addressing both physical and psychological aspects of recovery.
Are you ready to see how prosthetics can improve your life? Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
Prosthetic limbs generally last three to five years due to body changes and wear. They need adjustments for growth, weight fluctuations, and aging. Mastering them requires extensive training and ongoing therapist support. Though costly, financial aid makes them accessible. Comfort improves with adjustments. Suitable for all ages and sports, prosthetics can’t fully replicate natural limb functions.
Evansville Surgical Associates has been providing comprehensive and compassionate surgical care for over 50 years. Call us at (812) 424-8231 or (800) 264-8231 to contact us or schedule an appointment. We are available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.