Why is Custom Prosthesis Parts Better?

For someone who has lost a limb, life can drastically change. Once taken for granted, simple daily tasks can suddenly become difficult or even impossible. Walking or even picking up objects can become major challenges. Custom-made prosthetics are offering new hope and freedom to those with limb differences.

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But the impact extends beyond physical limitations. Losing a limb can also take an emotional toll, affecting one’s self-esteem and quality of life.

Fortunately, prosthetic technology continues to see breakthroughs. It provides a range of functionalities that can help people regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

As the best prosthetic company in Arkansas, Horton’s consistently produces custom-made prosthetics tailored to each patient’s preferences and goals.

This article will enhance your understanding of prosthetics by explaining how they function and what materials they usually consist of. Also, we will explain the significance of a skilled prosthetist in the prosthetic device creation process.

Read on to learn more about optimally designed prosthetics and what makes Horton’s the best choice.

What Are Prosthetics?

Prosthetics are artificial limbs designed to replace a missing limb or supplement a limb that is not functioning correctly. Prosthetic devices can fit any part of the body and range from simple devices, such as a hand or foot, to complex devices, such as an entire leg or arm.

The Importance of Finding the Right Prosthetic Fit

The primary focus should be ensuring you’re using the right prosthetic fit. Why? Take a look at what you can do with a well-fitted prosthesis:

• Choosing a prosthetic device with the proper fit will make you comfortable. It will not cause any pain, discomfort, or irritation.
• A custom-made prosthesis provides better functionality, allowing individuals to perform daily tasks with greater ease and independence.
• Finally, a perfectly customized prosthesis can improve your self-esteem, resulting in more confidence and control of your life.

How Do Prosthetics Work?

Several types of prostheses are currently available, each designed to provide a specific level of functionality and comfort.

The Most Common Types of Prostheses

Upper limb prostheses are designed to replace a missing hand, arm, or part of the arm. To be more specific:

• Transradial: This type of prosthesis acts as a replacement for your missing arm below the elbow to the hand.
• Transhumeral: This type of prosthesis mimics the functions of your arm below the shoulder to the elbow.

Prosthetic devices for lower limbs are engineered to substitute a missing foot, leg, or part of the leg. To have a better understanding:

• Transtibial: People with missing body parts from below the knee can look into the transtibial prosthesis.
• Transfemoral: This prosthesis mimics the functions of the missing limb above the knee.

How Can Prosthetics Be Controlled?

These artificial devices can be controlled using a body-powered system involving cables and harnesses. Or you can choose a myoelectric system, which utilizes electrical signals from the muscles to control the device.

Regardless of the type of prosthesis used, proper fit is essential. A prosthesis with an optimal fit increases performance efficiency and makes it easier for people to carry out regular daily activities. It also reduces the risk of injury and discomfort, allowing you to wear your prosthesis for extended periods without experiencing any adverse effects.

What Are Prosthetics Made Of?

Prosthetic devices are made from various materials, including plastics, metals, and composites. Each material offers unique benefits and drawbacks, and the choice of material depends on several factors, including the individual’s needs and the type of prosthetic device required.

Plastics

Prosthetic manufacturers commonly utilize plastics for their lightweight and durable characteristics. They frequently choose polypropylene for the test socket of the prosthetic due to its comfort and ability to be easily molded to fit the individual's residual limb. Moreover, they often opt for thermoplastic elastomers in prosthetic liners since they are flexible and help to minimize friction between the skin and the prosthesis.

Metals

Due to their strength and durability, metals such as titanium and aluminum are also used in prosthetic devices. These materials are commonly used in the structural components of the prosthesis, such as the frame, pylon, and knee joints.

Composites

Prosthetic device manufacturers also employ composites such as carbon fiber and fiberglass for their lightweight and strong properties. They typically utilize carbon fiber in the production of prosthetic feet because of its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio.

Manufacturing Processes for Custom-Made Prosthetics

Various manufacturing processes are utilized in the production of prosthetics, including 3D printing, machining, and manual fabrication. One of the key benefits of 3D printing is its ability to effortlessly create intricate shapes and structures. Similarly, machining is another frequently employed manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled tools to shape and cut prosthetic components. On the other hand, manual fabrication is a more conventional method that involves shaping and molding materials by hand.

What Is a Prosthetist?

A prosthetist is a healthcare professional who designs, fabricates, and fits prosthetic devices. You and your prosthetist must work closely to create custom-fit prosthetics tailored to your needs and preferences.

The role of prosthetists in the prosthetic device creation process is crucial. They begin by assessing the individual’s residual limb and understanding their goals and expectations for the prosthetic.

They then work to design and fabricate the prosthetic device, considering factors such as the individual’s weight, height, and activity level. Once the device is manufactured, the prosthetist ensures a proper fit and function, making adjustments as necessary.

Importance of Working with a Skilled and Experienced Prosthetist

Finding a skilled and experienced prosthetist is essential for achieving the most significant possible result with a prosthetic device. The best prosthetic lab for you will depend on several factors, but here’s a broad overview of what you should consider:

A prosthetist with experience and expertise can help you determine the best materials, design, and manufacturing process for your preferences.

A skilled prosthetist can also help individuals adjust to their prosthetic device, offering advice on care and maintenance and providing ongoing support and guidance. Finding a prosthetist who is compassionate, patient, and knowledgeable can make all the difference in the success of a prosthetic device.

The Horton’s Difference: Custom-Made Prosthetics

Horton’s Orthotics and Prosthetics is an excellent choice for those needing prosthetic or orthotic services in Arkansas. We offer various prosthetic services, including on-site fabrication capabilities that provide patients with custom-made prosthetics created in-house.

Patients won’t have to experience extensive delays because our custom-fit prosthetics are manufactured on-site. Quality control will not be an issue; our on-site fabrication capabilities allow us to monitor if the prosthetic devices are always at par with our highest standards.

Going Above and Beyond through Exceptional Patient Care

At Horton’s, patient care is of the utmost importance. We take a personalized approach to each patient, working with them to create a custom-made prosthetic that fits well and meets their individual needs and lifestyle.

The team at Horton’s is qualified, highly trained, and experienced. One of our primary goals is consistency in supporting and adopting the latest prosthetic innovations. We are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care.

Horton's is dedicated to enhancing the lives of amputees, whether they are constantly on the move as athletes or just parents who desire to play with their children anytime. We work hard to help people regain their independence and enhance their overall well-being.

Move Forward with Confidence in Custom-Made Prosthetics

It’s no secret that custom-made prosthetics can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals who have lost a limb or have a limb difference. Prosthetic devices can improve mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. However, finding the right prosthetic fit is essential for achieving these benefits.

We have discussed the different types of prosthetics, the materials and manufacturing processes used, and the importance of finding a skilled and experienced prosthetist. Also, we have highlighted how a prosthetist plays a crucial role in creating custom-fit prosthetics and the importance of finding a reputable provider.

A custom prosthetic device can help you get back to what you love doing most. However, if you’re a new amputee or someone who is choosing a prosthesis for the first time, it’s important to always do your research. Understanding which providers will work best and what goes into custom prosthetics can help you determine your next steps.

Our clinical staff at Horizon Orthotic & Prosthetic Experience understands the importance of a well-fitting, high-quality prosthetic device. For that reason, we provide the best care and devices that are delicately tailored to fit each patient’s unique needs. We believe that the key to custom prosthetics is just that—custom. No two patients should receive the exact same thing.

For more information, please visit Custom Prosthesis Parts.

To learn more about custom prosthetics, keep reading and our experts will lay out the information you need to prepare.

What is a custom prosthetic device?

A custom prosthetic device is a medical device that suspends onto the residual limb. Once properly suspended, it enables a patient to move more efficiently by replacing a certain body part. While there are some prosthetic devices that are only utilized for cosmetic reasons, we will focus on the devices that act as an artificial limb to restore mobility and function.

Patients who want or require a custom prosthetic limb may have been born without a limb or have had an amputation due to disease or injury. No matter the cause, your provider should design your device with your needs in mind. That means taking time to perform careful (and precise) measurements, determining the right suspension method, creating a custom socket, and more. The idea is that your prosthesis fits you perfectly so that it helps you throughout your daily life.

A custom device consists of different structural components, including the:

Socket: The socket is a custom built structure that fits intimately around your residual limb and protects the limb from skin breakdown. It is designed to maximize comfort, control, and proprioception in the device.

Interface: The interface acts as a barrier between the residual limb and the prosthesis. Typically interfaces come in the form of gel cushions or prosthetic socks.

Suspension system: The suspension system is designed to keep your prosthetic attached to your residual limb. The suspension of the prosthesis is very critical to maximizing the comfort, control and proprioception of the device.

Cosmetic cover: Cosmetic covers help to improve the appearance of a device to make it look more natural. In addition, these covers can help to protect the internal components from damage potentially caused by rain, dirt and debris.

What designs of custom prosthetics are available?

Your provider will consider your personal needs before helping you choose the right type of custom prosthetic design. A prosthesis is defined as, “An artificial body part, such as a leg, heart or joint implant.” There are permanent options (one’s placed inside your body); however, those options aren’t meant for limb amputees. Our clinical staff does not provide the internal prosthetic devices. We specialize in limb replacements. Limb amputees receive removable prosthetics, and the most common are arm prosthetics and leg prosthetics.

Arm prosthetics

Arm prosthetics improve the functionality of the arm and hand, allowing movements such as grabbing, reaching, and eating. A lot of patients choose to get an arm prosthesis to get back to their jobs. For example, a writer or painter can return to their jobs once they get used to working with the device.

Within this category there are two common types of prosthetic devices. The choice depends on the type of amputation (below the elbow or above the elbow).

Transradial arm prosthetics

A transradial prosthesis replaces the arm from below the elbow (includes the hand). This is for an amputation through the radius and ulna bones (forearm). Based on your needs, you and your provider can discuss which transradial prosthetic design would benefit you most. The two main options you can choose from include:

1. Cable-operated: With cable-operated prosthetics, a harness and cable are attached around the opposite shoulder of the residual limb. This is a very durable and functional device that is mechanically driven.
2. Myoelectric: Myoelectric prosthetics use electrodes to sense when the muscles in the upper arm move. This causes the artificial hand to open and close. This is an electrically driven device that often requires no cable systems.

Transhumeral arm prosthetics

A transhumeral prosthesis replaces the arm from above the elbow but below the shoulder.  This is for an amputation through the humerus bone (upper arm). Keep in mind that these devices are more difficult to build. Think of it this way. The elbow joint can flex (bending the arm toward the elbow), extend (stretching the arm out), and rotate (twisting the arm back and forth). That is a lot of movement for one joint. Because of this, replicating the complexities of the elbow requires extreme care and years of experience.

Leg prosthetics

A lower extremity prosthesis is designed to help patients with an amputation of the leg to restore their functionality. The largest benefit comes from the ability to walk. For many people, walking on their own is key to making the most out of their lives. That independence may be the difference between a positive outlook and a negative one.

Not only can patients gain walking ability, depending on the prosthetic device, many patients excel to the point where they can also ride a bike, swim, run, and participate in sports.

Similar to arm prosthetics, the design and build of a custom leg prosthetic depends on whether the amputation is above the knee or below.

Transtibial prosthetics

A transtibial prosthesis or below-knee prosthetics is for an amputation through the tibia and fibula (lower leg). Since these patients still have their anatomical knee, it makes adapting to walking with a prosthesis much easier. It also means that patients tend to regain full functionality more quickly than someone who does not have a knee joint.

Transfemoral prosthetics

A transfemoral prosthesis or above-knee prosthetics is for an amputation through the femur bone (thigh). In this case, a patient no longer has the knee joint, making the design and build of the device more difficult. However, the clinical staff at HOPE has the most advanced technology available today.  This technology includes incorporating computer chips into the mechanical knee joint to process what is happening while walking.  These advancements have dramatically improved the functional capabilities of individuals with a transfemoral amputation.

How are custom prosthetic devices made?

The process begins with a consultation. When you go in for a consultation, your prosthetist at HOPE will speak with you about your needs and goals. There are a lot of factors that the clinician must consider before making recommendations on which prosthetic device will best suit you.

Due to the meticulous nature of prosthetic design, the process could take several weeks from start to finish. However, you shouldn’t let that deter you. The only way a prosthetic device will work is with a commitment from all members of the rehab team to an outcome that restores the functional abilities of the amputee.

To give you an example of what to expect, here is the step-by-step process we use at HOPE KC.

Step One: Preliminary evaluation and measurements

Our process begins with a conversation to evaluate your needs. We want to understand what is important for you and what will help you move forward in life. Our biggest concern is your goals and what is stopping you from reaching them.

After that evaluation, we begin taking a series measurements of your residual limb and your sound side limb. This allows us to compare your normal anatomic structure to create a device that will best match that.

Step Two: Casting the limb

From the measurements, we then cast your limb to create the perfect fit. Depending on the situation, you limb may be hand cast using plaster or scanned by a 3D scan. As a result, this allows us to build a device that will give you the most comfort and mobility.

Step Three: Creating a diagnostic socket

The socket is arguably one of the most important parts of the overall prosthetic system. Without a properly fitting socket, it is likely that the device will not even get worn. An improperly fitted device can even lead to irritation and pain in the residual limb.

For that reason, we typically start with a clear test (or diagnostic) socket before creating the definitive socket. The test socket enables us to see pressure points and how the socket interacts with your limb. This is a process that includes multiple adjustments and improvements until the ideal socket is designed. In some cases, the socket fit is ideal on the first test fitting. This allows us to move forward with fabricating the definitive socket much sooner. In other instances, the socket may not be optimal, and we will create a different one until one fits.

Step Four: Delivery and final fitting

Once we’ve settled on the right socket fit and built your custom prosthetic device, we will have one final appointment with you to fit the device.  During this delivery process we will carefully examine the fit, function and suspension of the device to insure that we are providing the maximum functional outcomes. If you are a new amputee or new to prosthetics, this process may take longer than someone who is more accustomed to fittings. Our expert staff will go over the entire process of donning, doffing, care and precautions to ensure that you fully understand how to safely and successfully utilize the new prosthetic device.

Since our patients are our number one priority, we take extra time and care to help them understand how to use their device and the best ways to maintain it.

Here are a few tips we give our patients to care for their custom prosthetic:

• Make sure you remove your device each night before bed and examine your limb for redness or irritation. If there is excessive discomfort, always return to your prosthetist for help.
• Never sleep at night with the device on your limb. Your limb requires time to get air circulating around it and for it to be dry.  Wearing your limb 24 hours a day is not good for your skin.
• Each day, clean your socket and prosthetic with mild soap and water to avoid bacteria and dirt buildup. Do not fully submerge your device in water unless it is waterproof. Doing so could cause water damage.
• Only use your prosthetic device for the activities that it was designed to perform. Some devices aren’t designed to withstand high-impact activities or be submerged in water. For people who require a prosthetic design that allows them to participate in certain extracurricular activities, be sure to talk to your prosthetist about options that are available for sports or other physically strenuous activities.

HOPE KC is here to build the best custom prosthetic for you.

If you’re looking to get a custom prosthesis in Kansas City, Horizon Orthotic & Prosthetic Experience has six different locations in the Kansas City metro area and other Missouri cities to help you achieve your goals. Our customized prosthetic devices are made with the patient’s specific needs in mind.

We give our patients HOPE by providing them with the latest technology available in an effort to return them to the life they have longed for.

Contact us for more information on how to get a prosthesis in Kansas City.

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