Prosthetics

prosthetic lower limb being made

There are many reasons people require the use of a prosthetic device (prosthesis). Some may have lost a limb due to complications from diabetes or another health problem, through an injury or they may have been born with a missing or malformed limb.

Anyone adapting to using an assistive device faces emotional and physical challenges along the way – we are here to support you on that journey.

Once you are put in contact with our service, we will work with a multidisciplinary team to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

First steps

During the initial rehabilitation phase, we will provide an interim prosthesis (the first limb made following amputation). We will assist you in navigating the various funding schemes available, and help you select the most appropriate design from the wide range of technologies available to meet your immediate needs. We will then take a cast of your residual limb to ensure we have your precise measurements, and fabricate your first prosthesis.

Once the interim limb is completed, the fit and alignment are adjusted so you can take your first steps towards rehabilitation. You will work with the prosthetist, physiotherapist, doctors and other healthcare professionals to help you adapt to your new limb. During this period, your prosthesis is constantly monitored and adjusted to maintain the best fit and help you achieve your prosthetic goals.

Usually this process begins at an inpatient rehabilitation centre, however once you are safely using your new limb, you can go home and continue your rehabilitation as an outpatient.

Longer term solutions

Once your residual limb has stabilised and you’ve worked through the initial rehabilitation phase, you will progress to what we call a definitive prosthesis. This limb will be suitable for your day-to-day activities and may also include components to cater for more specific uses such as sports or recreation. Sometimes people will have additional limbs custom built to allow them to continue in or take up specialist activities such as cycling or running.

The final design of the prosthesis we use will be a combination of pre-manufactured and hand-made components. Traditionally prosthetic limbs will be fitted with a lightweight foam cover that is shaped to match your other leg or arm. Some people prefer to showcase the workings of the technology underneath and will not use a cover.

We can provide limbs with creative designs, colours and patterns on the outside of the prosthesis or with a more natural look if that is what you prefer. This can be discussed with your prosthetist at the time of fabrication.

Ongoing care

After your prosthesis is fitted, there may be occasions when the device needs adjustment or repair. At regular check-ups, your prosthetist will carry out all the required maintenance, teach you how to care for your own prosthesis, and advise you when a replacement may be needed. Our clinicians are available for both in-person reviews and phone consultations and we encourage you to get in touch with any questions or concerns straight away.