“Are prosthetic limbs permanent?”
I need to get a prosthetic limb. Are prosthetic limbs permanent?
2 Answers
NurseProstheticLimbs
Typically no. Your tissues will change over time and adjustments will be made - up to a point. When comfort and stability can no longer be maintained at acceptable levels to you, refitting is necessary
No, and your first prosthesis will likely have the shortest functional life due to stump maturation. As you begin to walk on your prosthesis fluid is pushed out of the limb which causes stump shrinkage. Muscle atrophy also occurs due to the muscles no longer having the same function as they did previously. The first socket is often replaced within 6-12 months. After the first one, socket replacements are required with less frequency. Let me know if you have any other questions! Good luck!
