Lower Limb

The major components of a lower extremity prosthesis are the socket (with or without a socket liner), a suspension system, interposed joint components (as needed), a shank (pylon), and a prosthetic foot. It is our strong conviction that the most important component of a prosthesis is a socket, which serves as the interface between the residual limb and the prosthesis. It must not only protect the residual limb but must also appropriately transmit the forces associated with standing and ambulation.

This is the part of a prosthesis that is custom made and its comfort and functionality is greatly dependent upon the professionalism and experience of the practitioner. The second most important aspect of a comfortable and a functionally adequate prosthesis is the alignment of its components, or its geometric relationship in space. We, at Orthopedic Arts believe in a comprehensive approach to the selection of prosthetic components for successful prosthetic restoration. The following factors are taken into consideration in designing the best prosthesis for a specific individual:

• Amputation level and residual limb strength
• Contour of the residual limb
• Health status
• Physical status (ie, balance, strength) and fitness level
• Activity tolerance from underlying medical comorbidities (ie, atherosclerotic heart disease, ischemia)
• Effects of peripheral vascular disease and diabetic nephropathy, which may cause unstable residual limb volume
• Impaired cognition or other neurologic deficits (ie, stroke)
• Sensorimotor deficits caused by peripheral nerve dysfunction
• Visual impairments resulting from diabetic retinopathy, or other ophthalmic disorders
• Expected function and needs of the prosthesis
• Patient's vocation (for example, desk job vs manual labor)
• Patient's avocational interests (ie, hobbies)
• The cosmetic importance of the prosthesis
• The patient's financial resources (ie, medical insurance, worker's compensation)

We utilize all available European and US prosthetic systems such as Otto Bock, OSSUR, Endolite, and OWW. In most cases we use ultra-lightweight materials that make artificial limbs lighter and more durable.