Oct. 25, 2024
Learning to Walk with a Prosthetic Leg
How do you walk with a prosthetic leg? If you or a loved one has recently had an amputation, you might wonder can you walk normally with a prosthetic leg. Walking with a prosthetic leg looks different for every patient and depends on whether you are an above-knee or below-knee amputee. Know that our team at Prime Care Orthotics & Prosthetics is here to help every step of the way.
Learning to Walk with Above-Knee vs Below-Knee Prosthetic Legs
Walking on a prosthetic leg for the first time will undoubtedly come with a learning curve, but it is completely possible. The road to mobility looks different whether you’ve had a below-knee or above-knee amputation. How to walk with a below-the-knee prosthetic is a different experience as the amputation leaves the knee joint intact. This provides more stability and isn’t as difficult for the amputee. As you walk, your body is able to bear your body weight.
How to walk with an above-knee prosthetic is a different experience because the knee joint is removed entirely. In this case, the prosthetic leg also requires a knee joint. The knee joint helps the patient to feel like there is stability and allows them to put weight on it, although this is more difficult and can result in falling if you are not careful. You can expect to use devices such as a walker while you are learning to regain mobility and confidence.
Is It Difficult to Learn How to Walk with a Prosthetic Leg?
You might be wondering if you can walk normally with a prosthetic leg. Be patient with yourself as you’re learning and you will undoubtedly hit some common road bumps along the way. Even after you’ve put the work into the rehabilitation process, you could run into challenges such as:
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) that can potentially impact how the prosthesis fits your body as well as potential skin issues.
- Changes in the shape of your residual limb are not uncommon during the first year after amputation. The tissue will settle into a more permanent shape that can impact the socket and your ability to walk comfortably.
- Residual limb weakness could make it difficult to use the prosthesis for long periods.
- Phantom limb pain could be severe enough that it impedes your ability to use the prosthesis.
Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that the specific challenges you may encounter are highly dependent on where your amputation occurred. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the process of learning how to walk with a prosthetic leg.
Tips for Learning to Use a Leg Prosthesis
Prosthetic leg training doesn’t come without its challenges, but learning to walk with a prosthetic leg is completely possible! Here are some tips to keep in mind.
#1 Proper Fit and Maintenance
One of the most important parts of learning to walk again is making sure that the design and fit between the residual limb and the prosthesis are factored in for proper comfort and control. The more securely that your prosthetic fits, the more effectively you’ll be able to control your movement. Everyone has different levels of amputation, so make sure to work with a hands-on team who can prioritize the fit and comfort of your prosthetic.
Maintenance is another important part of walking with a prosthetic device. You’ll need to regularly keep up with cleaning the socket area so you don’t cause any skin irritation. Consult with your team regarding specific maintenance routines.
#2 Use Support
As soon as the socket is fit properly and you feel comfortable, you’ll want to learn how to transfer weight onto your prosthesis. The first time walking with prosthetic devices should only come after you have used the support of parallel bars. As we naturally shift the weight of our bodies when we walk, it’s essential to master how to walk safely again before going straight into walking. It’s common for most people to feel hesitant about putting their full weight onto a prosthesis at first, but with careful guidance from your physical therapist, you’ll be able to put more weight onto your prosthetic leg(s).
When you begin to learn how to walk using the parallel bars, you’ll use both arms for support. Over time and as you become more comfortable, you will rely less and less on the parallel bars and feel comfortable walking with little or no support from your upper body. The process is different for everyone and it often takes more time for individuals who have had above-knee or bilateral amputations.
#3 Focus on Balance
Walking with a prosthetic foot requires balance, and this is an essential part of learning how to walk with a prosthetic device. There are countless joints and muscles throughout the leg, ankle, feet, and toes to help balance the rest of your body, so other areas of your body will have to account for the absence of these mechanisms. Make sure to pay attention to the areas that are taking on new roles in keeping your balance as it will initially take a conscious effort to exercise these muscles. Over time, it will become second nature.
#4 Go Slowly
How long does it take to learn to walk with a prosthesis? As soon as you become fit for an artificial leg, you’ll feel a sense of empowerment and excitement that you might have been missing. Although it is tempting to rush into the walking process, it’s essential that you approach it slowly to become accustomed to this new way of walking. The first thing you’ll want to focus on is standing still so your body can find a new center of balance. There’s unconscious stability that’s required in walking that your body will need to achieve before you walk. When it’s time to start walking, focus on one step at a time until your comfort level increases.
#5 Advanced Exercises
Even after you’ve started to gain more confidence while walking with your prosthetic leg, you must continue to learn and implement new exercises into your routine. While you take on new skills, make sure that you are holding onto something for support until you feel confident with each new exercise.
Here are some options that you can try:
- Bouncing on a ball standing in place followed by walking;
- Balancing on one leg;
- Balancing a stick on your hand while standing in place.
Once you’ve mastered the above, you can experiment with more practical exercises that can be implemented on a daily basis:
- Walking on different surfaces including uneven terrain, carpet, and pavement;
- Getting in and out of a car;
- Falling down and getting back up;
- Carrying items while you’re walking.
Don’t be discouraged by slow progress and it’s only natural to feel sore as you adapt to your prosthesis.
Tips for Walking
As soon as you’re ready to start walking on your own, you’ll want to closely follow the recommendations of your doctor. Don’t rush into walking on your own and pay close attention to the width of your foot placement and the length of your step.
Here are some other tips to keep in mind when you first start walking:
- Walk often but only for short periods as it will take some time for your stamina and strength to return;
- As soon as you feel tired, take a break and rest - walking when you feel tired could result in an accident;
- Continue to use your aids such as crutches, a cane, or a walker until you are fully confident. If you stop using those too soon, you could develop poor walking habits;
- When you are going up the stairs or on a sloped surface, move your good leg first, however, when you are coming down the stairs, move your prosthesis first. Any aids such as canes or crutches should move with the prosthesis.
How Far Can You Walk with a Prosthetic Leg?
The distance that patients can walk ranges depending on where their amputation is and how long they’ve had with the prosthetic. Generally speaking, the median distance that someone with a lower limb amputation could walk was about 67 meters which equates to about 219 feet. Some patients were only able to walk 22 meters (72 feet) while others could walk as far as 93 meters (305 feet).
How Many Hours a Day Can You Wear a Prosthetic Leg?
Day Wear Time Frequency Day 1 30 minutes Once Day 2 30 minutes Three times (after meals) Day 3 45 minutes Three times Day 4 60 minutes Three times
Make sure to follow the recommended schedule from your care team so you don’t overdo it. On the first day of wearing your prosthesis, wear it for only 30 minutes before taking it off. You may notice some red marks where your residual limb was feeling the pressure, but these marks will subside within 30 minutes.
If you don’t have any issues, you can increase the wear time the following day to three 30-minute sessions. Consider wearing the prosthesis after each meal, and always remember to examine the limb when you take off your prosthesis.
On the third day, you can wear it for 45 minutes three times per day; on the fourth day, 60 minutes three times a day, and so on. Use this schedule as a general guideline but always ask your therapist for specific recommendations.
So Is a Prosthetic Worth It?
While the journey may have its challenges at the outset, it's crucial to bear in mind that with perseverance and the proper support, the restoration of mobility and confidence is entirely feasible.
Here at PrimeCare Orthotics & Prosthetics, our dedicated team is fully committed to assisting you at every stage of this process, ensuring that you receive the tailored care and guidance necessary.
Is a prosthetic worth it? Without a doubt. If you're prepared to embark on the next phase of reclaiming your mobility and independence, don't hesitate to contact us today. Your path to a fulfilling life with a prosthetic leg commences right here.
How Do Prosthetic Legs Stay On & More
I am facing an amputation. What should I do firstI am facing an amputation. What should I do first
Call our office at 440-988-5770 for a pre-surgical consultation free of charge.
How long is the prosthetic process?
The process is unique to each individual patient and the reasons for their amputation. Once the surgeon allows for the prosthetic use about 2-4 weeks after clearance you will be able to take your first steps.
How long should I wear my prosthesis?
- For new amputees, a break in schedule will be given and monitored by the patient, physical therapist, and prosthetist.
- You will slowly work your wear up to being able to wear the prosthesis all day. This normally take several weeks.
When should I wear my shrinker?
- If you are a new amputee, your shrinker should be worn 23 hours a day, except when you are bathing or washing the residual limb.
- If you have been an amputee and now have a prosthesis, you should wear your shrinker only while sleeping at night.
When do I start wearing a shrinker?
You will start wearing a shrinker when the incision line begins to heal and your physician gives you the okay to start the process.
How do I care for my shrinker?
You will be given two shrinkers so you can wash one while wearing the other. They should be washed daily. Wash your shrinker by hand or in a washing machine (in a garment bag/pillow case on the gentle cycle). Use warm water (not hot) and a mild soap. Rinse well. Then, roll in a towel to remove the excess water and lay flat to dry. DO NOT PLACE SHRINKERS IN THE DRYER.
How does my prosthesis stay on?
- There are different methods of suspension of the prothesis.
- There is anatomical, suction, elevated vacuum, shuttle-lock (pin), and lanyard systems.
- Anatomical suspension utilizes the contour of the boney prominences of the residual limb to hold on.
- Suction system area used with a cushion liner, with or without sealing bands, or direct skin contact of the residual limb. The socket has a one-way valve to expel the air out of the socket, which creates negative pressure in the socket to attain suspension.
- The elevated vacuum system utilizes an external pump to draw the air out of the socket and obtain negative pressure inside of the socket to achieve suspension.
- The shuttle lock system consists of a pin that is threaded to the distal end (bottom) of the liner, which then engages to the locking mechanism attached to the bottom of the socket to achieve suspension.
- The lanyard system is often used with transfemoral (above-knee) prostheses. It consists of wearing a liner, and attached at the distal end of the liner is a Velcro strap or braided string. Then it is fed through the locking mechanism and pulled out of the bottom of the socket to obtain suspension.
How do I learn to use my prosthesis?
Your first steps using the prosthesis will be taken in our office during the fitting process. Upon receipt of the prosthesis, you will participate in a physical therapy gait training program to learn how to walk.
How long does a prosthesis last?
The socket and componentry are expected to last 3-5 years. Either can be replaced before this time due to damage or physical change of the residual limb. It can vary from each patient’s specificneeds.
How do you determine the most appropriate prosthesis for me?
- Pre-amputation Lifestyle – Hobbies, vocation, terrain, previous activities
- Objective Testing – Amp Pro, Timed Up and Go
- Patient Interview and Feedback – Education on systems, options, pros/cons of each component
How do I know if my prosthesis is fitting correctly?
Overall comfort, control, confidence, and ability to reach your goals are being met.
Can I get my prosthesis wet and/or what if my prosthesis gets wet?
Most prostheses will not tolerate water immersion. There are prostheses made that are waterproof just for the purpose of showering or swimming. Most prostheses will not be harmed with occasional raindrops or muddy puddle, however they should not be immersed into water, such as showering or swimming unless you know your device was made for that purpose. If the prosthesis does happen to get wet, dry it off as soon as possible. If you use a heating device such as a hair dryer or heat gun, make sure to use a setting that will not melt or damage the prosthesis. If you have concerns as to whether water has/or could damage the prosthesis (especially those with microprocessors and electronics) you should contact your prosthetist immediately.
Is there a difference between fresh and salt water?
Yes, the difference is salt water is more corrosive and damaging on the components of the prosthesis. You should always rinse off a prosthesis with fresh water after it has been used in salt water.
Can I wear different shoes than the ones I wore during my clinical fitting of my prosthesis?
- Your prosthesis was aligned according to your specific gait, and with the shoes you wore to the fittings. If you choose to wear shoes that were different than those worn at the fitting it may result in a noticeable discomfort when walking, or worse create conditions that could make you stumble or fall.
- The most noticeable difference in shoes is what is termed heel height. To be sure your gait remains the same, you should always wear shoes with the same heel height that were worn at your fittings. If you want to switch shoes or get a new pair and are not sure they will work, you should contact your prosthetist and make an appointment to have them checked (be sure to bring the new pair of shoes).
- Most prosthetic devices can be adjusted to accommodate a slight change in heel height. This will ensure your gait is comfortable and steady using the new shoes. If you find yourself in a position where you are changing shoe styles frequently, there are prosthetic feet manufactured that you can self-adjust depending on the shoes worn. You need to consult your prosthetist on this matter.
I have a prosthesis with locking liner suspension and the pin is stuck or the release button won’t move, and I cannot get the prosthesis off.
- Other then the locking mechanism failing (which rarely happens) the most common problem is your prosthetic sock became stuck and caught between the pin and the mechanism interface. Do not pound, hammer, or try to pry things apart using any tools that may slip and damage your prosthesis, liners, or yourself.
- Trying twisting, pulling, or gently tugging on the prosthesis. If this does not work a solution of water and dish soap, mild hand soap or such may be introduced between the skin of your residual limb and the locking liner. The idea is to break the bond or suction holding the liner on so you can easily pull it off your limb. Once you get the prosthesis off, you will need to bring it to your prosthetist and let them separate the socket and the liner.
- If that does not work, call the office and your prosthetist will remove it for you.
Can I decorate, such as paint, color, draw, or put stickers etc. on my prosthesis?
- If your prosthesis was not fabricated with any fabric or transfers that you chose initially it still may be “decorated.” Your device may have several different finishes and materials exposed that you can see. For the most part, the exterior can be “decorated” with paints, markers, stickers etc. without damaging the device or affect its purpose.
- Be sure to “test” smaller areas for compatibility beforehand. Be sure to not use any products that may be corrosive and caustic, and may damage the prosthesis.
- Do not however “dip” or immerse the prosthesis into anything.
- Most water or oil-based paint and markers, as with stickers will not harm the prosthesis. If in doubt, ask your prosthetist.
Texas Prosthetic Systems
Common Questions about Prosthetics
As a pre-operative amputee patient or recent amputee, there are many questions about what comes next. Recent amputees often have many questions about prosthetics. Today, we wanted to address some of the more common questions about prosthetics and provide some insight on the road ahead for lower limb amputees. One of the first topics that come up for recent amputees is if they would benefit from receiving lower limb prosthesis.
Should I get a prosthetic leg?
Many factors go into whether a lower limb prosthesis is suitable for an amputee. Examples include the volume of soft tissue available to cushion bone, localized pain, condition of the skin on the limb, and the residual limb’s range of motion. Common determining questions include, how healthy is your other leg, and what was your activity level like prior to amputation? What are your mobility goals? Another consideration is the amputation site. A below-the-knee prosthesis allows for better mobility and reduced effort to move than an above-the-knee prosthesis. A more sedentary individual with amputation caused by chronic health issues can have more difficulty adapting to a prosthetic leg than a highly active individual who lost their limb to accident or injury.
How does a prosthetic leg work?
A prosthesis is a tool that acts as an extension of your natural body to provide you enhanced mobility. A prosthetic limb is custom-made specifically for an amputee based on their size, ability, needs, and goals. Prosthetists create artificial limbs using different specs to create a prosthesis that is right for the amputee’s lifestyle. The amputee’s residual leg will be covered with a liner and one or more socks to create a comfortable and clean barrier between the limb’s socket and the limb. The socket is then attached to the liner by a locking pin, suspension sleeve, or other mechanism to keep the limb connected while suspended. The prosthesis will feature a foot joint and potentially a knee joint to assist the amputee with a more natural walking gait and articulation while seated.
The cosmetics of your prosthesis are up to you. Some amputees like the practical, utilitarian look of the bare components. Other amputees prefer the cosmetic look of a natural-looking limb. Some amputees go full out using their limb as a canvas to display tattoo-style illustrations, their favorite sports team, or other bold designs that reflect their personality. Because the prosthesis is an extension of yourself, it’s important to take some time considering what you want your prosthetic to look like.
How long can I wear my prosthetic leg?
For amputees adjusting to a new prosthesis, the recommended maximum is two hours of wear with 30 minutes of walking or standing. The walking/standing does not need to be completed all at once. If you meet the maximum time and your leg feels good, continue increasing daily wear by one hour with an additional 15 minutes of walking/standing each additional day. Even if your leg feels good once reaching the maximum wear time, you should remove the prosthesis and allow your body to rest before increasing time the next day.
Can I wear my prosthesis in the shower?
The recommendation is that you remove your prosthesis when bathing. First, many prosthetic leg components are sensitive to moisture, and water exposure can affect your prosthesis’s ability to function correctly. The second reason is that it’s vital to thoroughly clean your residual limb stump to ensure it stays healthy, requiring removing all prosthesis components, including prosthesis, socket, socks, liners, and shrinkers. For amputees interested in swimming or other water-based activities, there are specialty prosthetic limbs and airtight covers available for amputees to enjoy swimming and other watersports.
How soon can I return to before amputation level activity?
An amputee’s recovery depends heavily on your health, drive, and goals. For many, the first year is challenging. In addition to the physical recovery of surgery, the shape and size of your residual limb will fluctuate, and your body will need exercise and time to recondition your muscles. You will also need to relearn basic mobility activities like gait, balance, and coordination—all of which require you to learn to trust your prosthesis.
We strongly recommend new amputees and prosthesis wearers find a local support group. The support of a community of people who understand specifically what you are going through because they are also going through it is extremely helpful. Much of your success is dependent on emotional resilience and staying motivated through difficult times. Being able to share that difficulty with peers makes a big difference.
How long will my prosthesis last?
This is one of the most common questions about prosthetics. The answer is, it depends on wear and tear and your activity level. An active person whose weight and mass fluctuate more often will need more resizing, refitting, and replacements than a more sedentary lifestyle with little weight and mass fluctuation. You can expect a new socket may need to be fitted with your prosthesis in the first year as your residual limb tissue settles into its permanent shape. In general, temporary prosthesis last a few months, and permanent prosthesis last 3-5 years, depending on wear. If you experience new pain, discomfort, or a lack of stability with your prosthetic leg, it’s time to check with your prosthetist for an evaluation.
Taking the Next Step
These answers only scratch the surface of questions amputees have when considering a prosthesis. You can find some resources on our website to help you research prosthetics and help you decide if a prosthesis is right for you.
We urge you to contact us directly if you have questions about Texas Orthotic & Prosthetic Services, or how a prosthetic limb can help to improve your life.