Prosthetics

Prosthetics are artificial devices that replace missing body parts, such as limbs, teeth, or eyes. These devices are designed to restore function, appearance, or both, helping individuals regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Approximately 0.5% of the global population uses prosthetic limbs or devices, translating to around 40 million people worldwide.

Common Types of Prosthetics:

• Limb prosthetics (arms, legs)

• Dental prosthetics (false teeth or dentures)

• Ocular prosthetics (artificial eyes)

• Facial prosthetics (ears, nose)

  
  

Role of Prosthetics in Rehabilitation:

The purpose of prosthetic rehabilitation is to promote function and mobility following amputation. Prosthetics play a crucial role in amputee rehabilitation, from pre-surgical education and post-surgical care to prosthetist prescription, design, and fitting, as well as ongoing management and support.

Key Roles of Prosthetics in Rehabilitation:

1. Physical Function Restoration:

   • Helps individuals regain mobility and perform daily activities.

   • Provides balance, stability, and support.

2. Psychological Support:

   • Boosts self-confidence and body image.

   • Reduces feelings of dependency and social isolation.

3. Prevention of Secondary Complications:

   • Prevents joint contractures, muscle weakness, and pressure sores.

4. Improved Quality of Life:

   • Enhances independence in daily activities.

   • Allows participation in social, recreational, and professional activities.

5. Rehabilitation Process Support:

   • Works alongside physiotherapy to improve strength and coordination.

   • Helps in gait training and balance improvement.

     
     

Maximizing Outcomes with Prosthetics:

• Choose the right prosthetic device.

• Ensure a proper fit.

• Engage in rehabilitation and physical therapy.

• Learn how to use it effectively.

• Perform regular maintenance.

• Maintain a positive mindset and mental health.

• Set goals and push your limits.

• Stay updated with technological advancements.

  

Medical Contraindications:

• Severe cardiovascular or respiratory disease:

  Poor circulation or breathing issues may limit mobility.

• Uncontrolled diabetes:

  Increases the risk of ulcers, infections, and slow healing.

• Peripheral vascular disease (PVD):

  Poor blood flow can lead to further complications.

• Severe osteoporosis:

  Weak bones may not support the pressure of the prosthetic.

• Active infections or wounds:

  A prosthetic may cause further irritation and delay healing.

  
  

Physical Limitations:

• Severe joint contractures:

  If a joint is too stiff or deformed, wearing a prosthetic may be difficult.

• Obesity:

  Excess weight can make prosthetic use challenging.

• Significant muscle weakness or paralysis:

  Lack of strength can prevent proper control of the prosthesis.

• Short residual limb:

  If the remaining limb is too short, it may not provide enough support.

  
  

Psychological & Cognitive Factors:

• Severe dementia or cognitive impairment:

  May affect the ability to use the prosthetic safely.

• Severe depression or lack of motivation:

  Can affect willingness to use and adapt to the prosthetic.

• Poor pain tolerance:

  Discomfort from a prosthetic may be unbearable for some individuals.

  
  

Functional & Lifestyle Considerations:

• Limited mobility before amputation:

  If a person was not mobile before losing a limb, they may struggle with prosthetics.

• Lack of caregiver support:

  Some individuals need assistance to put on and use a prosthetic.

• Personal preference:

  Some people may prefer to use a wheelchair or other mobility aids instead.

Relative Contraindications (May Be Managed with Special Care)

• Mild cardiovascular conditions (with physician clearance)

• Chronic pain (managed with therapy and medication)

• Advanced age (if physically active and motivated)

  
  

Professionals Who Support Prosthetics Include:

• Prosthetist

• Orthotist

• Physiatrist (Rehabilitation Physician)

• Physiotherapist

• Occupational Therapist

• Surgeons (Orthopedic & Vascular)

• Psychologists & Counselors

• Rehabilitation Nurses

• Gait Specialists & Biomechanical Engineers

Prosthetics play a crucial role in the comprehensive rehabilitation process for individuals who have undergone amputations. This journey begins well before the surgical procedure itself, as pre-surgical education is essential in preparing patients both mentally and physically for the significant life changes they will encounter.