7 Common Questions That Amputees Have Around Prosthetics

Knowing that a part of their body will be amputated and never be the same again can torment an amputee’s mind. 

They’ll have to be best friends with prosthetics. The good news is that initiatives like the helping hands project are normalizing the trauma and empowering amputees so that they can match the standards of society with the help of prosthetic limbs.

But fresh amputees always have clouds of doubt harboring them when it comes to prosthetics. That is why we consulted the experts on your behalf and, after extensive research, jot together a list of seven common questions about prosthetics. 

So, let’s take a look:

1.     When should I switch to prosthetics?

Fresh amputees often struggle with the right timing for purchase. Well, the answer to that depends upon the condition of the surgically repaired area. 

Many people switch to prosthetics after two weeks of amputation. Therefore, if the swelling has subsided and you no longer feel the pain, you can look for prosthetics. 

2.     When will I be able to write again?

Again, it depends upon the condition of your limb. If you feel pain while moving your arm, perhaps you need another month of healing. 

Though prosthetics work with pressure, they still need you to work your arm out. However, upon applying pressure, if the pain is sustaining, we recommend contacting your doctor before using the prosthetic hand any further. 

3.     Will I suffer from phantom pain forever?

Though this one is for experts to answer, after talking to people who have been using prosthetics for over two decades, we conclusively say that some people may experience it with the change in weather while others may not experience it after a time being at all. 

Again, we would reiterate that contacting your doctor would be the best way to figure out whether the pain will sustain or subside after a point in time.

4.     Do I need therapy to learn how to operate prosthetics?

Well, after you buy your customized prosthetic, the prosthetist will most likely extend their helping hands to teach you the correct way of handling your new limb.

They will make operating prosthetics interesting and fun. They will task you with certain activities and ensure you get used to the new hand. 

Moreover, they will also strengthen your mental resolve to fight the pessimistic thoughts that harbor in your mind. So, yes, therapy can certainly help you operate prosthetics better. 

5.     How long do I have to wait to get my customized prosthetic hand?

Once you hand the measurements to the prosthetist, they will send them to the manufacturers. 

Creating an exact fit for your arm is a complicated process. Therefore, manufacturers may take up to two weeks to assemble all the parts perfectly. 

After you get the hand, you will be asked to see if you are comfortable with the fit and its operations. If not, it will again be sent to the manufacturer for further alteration. 

6.     How much will prosthetics cost me?

Generally, quality prosthetics may cost you around $5,000- $10,000. The cost of insurance is generally included in the total amount. 

Therefore, we recommend you ask your prosthetist to split the cost so that you can ascertain what all things you are paying for. 

Also, you must ensure that sudden breakdowns and regular repairs are covered under insurance.

7.     Do residual limbs change size?

Yes, they do. Once the swelling subsides, your limb will likely shrink a bit. We already mentioned above that you should not go for prosthetics unless your swelling has eased out. 

Final Thoughts

The times of worry have long gone for amputees. They can lead a happy and normal life thanks to empowerment programs backed by technological advancement. 

So, consider these seven questions before you visit your prosthetist.