When should prosthetics be upgraded?
Research shows that it takes patients from two to six months to get used to a prosthetic. Once a patient gets used to their above knee, below knee, or upper extremity prosthetics, they may be reluctant to upgrade their prosthetics. After a period of time, a limb prosthesis should be upgraded.
If you have patients who are reluctant to improve their prosthetic limbs, here is some information you can share with them on the importance of prosthetic upgrades.
1) Prosthetic upgrades are important for safety
On average, a prosthetic leg needs to be replaced every three to five years. There are times prosthetic legs can last a little longer. They may have to replace some of the components to keep their legs in good condition. If a patient does not upgrade their prosthesis, the components might wear out, and the leg may fail, which can put the user in danger.
2) Prosthetic upgrades give an athlete the upper hand
Prosthetic upgrades have been amazing for athletes. Researchers estimate that between 15,000 and 20,000 patients are athletes. 5,000 play for competitive teams, or are competitive runners. With so many athletes suffering from limb loss, prosthetic central fabrication has improved. Athletes can enjoy light, durable athletic prosthetics with spray skins to improve their appearance.
Elite athletes can also have their team logo, personal affirmation, or even art applied to their prostheses. All the prosthetic upgrades for athletes can encourage them to soar higher and run faster.
3) Prosthetic upgrades can move patients into the future
The prosthetics industry is moving forward. The more research scientists complete, the more they are able to merge the function of a natural limb on the human body. In fact, scientists at Johns Hopkins are working on ways to make the remaining limb and the prosthetic work together through electrical signals.
Mind controlled prosthetics is a huge research field. Not too far in the future, people who experience limb loss may be able to control their upper limb or lower limb prosthetic with their minds. People may even be able to feel sensations through their prosthetic limb–even sensations as soft as a feather may be possible in the future.
With all the advancement in prosthetic technology over the past 10 years, patients can look forward to increased mobility and function. They will be able to do more things regardless of their amputated limbs, which means they will be able to lead fuller, more productive lives.
Contact Grace Prosthetics for More Information About Prosthetic Upgrades
When it comes to being on the forefront of technology, Grace Prosthetic Fabrication is riding the prosthetic innovation wave.We invented Grace Gauntlets and Grace Plates, and we continue to innovate to improve the lives of your patients. If you are looking for excellence in innovation, contact us today.
