Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the common questions below, and feel free to reach out directly with additional questions!

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General Questions

How soon after my amputation will I become mobile?

It depends on how quickly you heal.  If you have good circulation and no post-operative complications, you might be ready to use a temporary prosthesis within 5 or 6 weeks after surgery.

Who is the rehabilitation team?

It is an entire group of specialists. Generally it consists of your physician and prosthetist or orthotist and a physical therapist. Other specialists might be included depending on your needs, like an occupational therapist, rehabilitation counselor, wound care specialist, and social worker.

When will I be ready to receive my permanent prosthesis?
The permanent prosthesis is prescribed when your limb volume has begun to stabilize and you have progressed in your gait training. This might occur from 3 to 6 months after you receive your temporary prosthesis.
How will my prosthesis stay on?
There are many different suspension methods which your prosthetist will discuss with you. Some limbs are suspended using suction, sometimes assisted by a suspension sleeve. Suspension can be obtained from a pin mechanism attached to a roll-on liner, and some prostheses are attached using straps or extensions of the socket.
How often should I see my orthotist or pedorthist after my device is delivered?
At least twice a year you should make an appointment to be sure that your device retains a solid fit and that it remains safe and functional.
My device needs an adjustment. Do I need to see my physician?
Probably not – adjustments that do not change the fundamental nature of the device do not require a physician visit or a prescription.
Can I take a shower with my prosthesis on?
We generally do not recommend it unless it was designed specifically for water activities.
I can still feel my toes even though my leg has been amputated.
This is called phantom sensation, and most amputees experience it. If it is uncomfortable, speak to your physician about treatment options.
What shoes are recommended with my prosthesis?
Almost any shoe can be used with your prosthesis, but bring the shoes you wear most  often when you are fitted for your limb. Most foot components work properly with shoes of only one heel height, though there are some prosthetic feet that provide adjustment so that shoes of different heel heights can be worn. Athletic type shoes are often recommended because of their light weight and rippled soles that prevent slipping.
How should I wash my prosthetic socks?
Wool socks are best if they are washed by hand and air dried. You can machine wash them, but they will remain softer and last longer if hand washed. Nylon and cotton socks can be machine washed.
My prosthesis now needs more socks than it did at first in order to fit correctly. Can it be adjusted so that I don't have to wear so many?
Small adjustments to the socket to reduce the number of socks needed are usually successful at first, but as shrinkage continues you often have to adjust. Your prosthetist will estimate where and how much you have shrunk, and then add material in the proper areas  to help you be more comfortable.
Should my artificial arm have a hand or a hook?
Each has advantages: a hook is durable and better suited to handling a variety of objects, and  the hand is preferred by those who want a more cosmetic limb. Since these devices are interchangeable, many amputees choose to use both.
What is the difference between a body-powered and a myoelectric arm?

There are two options for operating the terminal device and/or elbow components of a prosthetic arm. Body powered prostheses use a custom-designed harness and stainless steel cable to operate the terminal device and elbow. A myoelectric prosthesis has  electrodes built into the limb which use the tiny electrical signals from the muscles to signal small battery operated motors which in turn move the terminal device and/or elbow – no cables or harness are necessary. Each system has advantages, and some amputees have both a body-powered and a myoelectric limb.

Can I continue to enjoy sports with my prosthesis?
Most people resume their sports activities using their prosthesis. Some sports such as swimming and sprinting require specially designed limbs.  Your prosthetist can discuss specific alternatives with you.

About Our Services

Therapeutic Footwear

Pedorthics is the design, manufacture, modification and fit of shoes – and foot orthoses – to alleviate foot and ankle problems caused by trauma, overuse syndromes or disease. Pedorthics uses footwear, including foot orthoses to help ease foot problems.

Orthotics / Pedorthics

At Resource O&P, our goal is to help you achieve the highest levels of independence and function for patients of all ages and abilities. We have on staff practitioners who provide the highest levels of service and patient care available in the field of orthotics.

Prosthetics

Resource O&P is committed to individualized patient care. Every situation is unique and each patient has a very personal set of needs and goals in their prosthetic care and rehabilitation. Our highly trained and experienced specialists begin with patient assessment.