I Need A New Artificial Limb - Below Knee Prostheses - Working With A Specialist

Have you lost one of your limbs?

1.) Loss of a Limb

Maybe you have lost the ability to walk due to an amputation. Maybe it was not your leg, but it could have been your arm and now you have to move on, past this kind of a loss. When this happens, yes, there is a time to recover mentally from the loss of your leg or arm. There is no denying that life will change as the result of losing one of your extremities. However, when you are wanting to move forward, the use of a prosthetic limb can help you function more fluidly with your activities of daily living. A high-quality prosthesis can help you return to the quality of life you experienced before the amputation.

Most prosthetic limbs provided are for the legs and other lower extremeties. Two main reasons why people will suffer the loss of a limb are either diabetes or a trauma. As a result, many times these same individuals will need a new prosthesis to help them walk again.

2.) BK Prosthesis vs. AK Prosthesis

These terms are used to describe the level at which a prosthesis is provided to a patient. A "BK" prosthesis is provided to an individual that has suffered the loss of their leg below their knee. In other words, a "BK" prosthesis is used for a "below knee" application. In addition, it is important to note that the prosthetic acronym "AK" is used to describe an "above knee" prosthesis.

Shockingly, not every person that has lost one of their limbs is a candidate for a new prosthetic arm or leg. The ability to use the prosthesis must be displayed and many times individuals without motivation to learn about their new prosthesis are not the best candidates.

3.) Why Its Important To Work With A Professional To Get Your Prosthesis

These devices are specialized devices and should only be prescribed by a physician. It is always best to visit a local, licensed prosthetist for this kind of medical treatment. Prosthetists are educated and trained in the field of prosthetics and they have to earn their credentials by passing difficult exams. In addition, these same individuals have to work to keep their credentials by pursuing a consistent level of education after they have been licensed. Moreover, they have to pay dues to keep their license status active. - What this means is that you will benefit from working with a prosthetist in your area.

Your insurance may also pay for a new prosthesis. The coverage of benefits will be part of your health insurance plan and your local orthotics and prosthetic company can help you determine your coverage benefits.

Note: This is health information. If you are looking for medical advice pertaining to the use of a prosthesis then visit your local, licensed prosthetist and/or physician. This free health information is meant to provide you good general information on the subject of prosthetics. This is not medical advice.