The style of your prosthesis is totally dependent on you, today there are practically no limitations to the aesthetic amputee. Your prosthetic can look just about any way you want it; from skins that match your exact skin tone and look just like your other limbs, to super advanced componentry that looks cool on display, and sockets with wild designs, pictures, or logos; if you can imagine it we can probably do it.
Question Comfort (FAQ)
We know you have a lot of questions. Start finding answers here.
What will my prosthesis look like?
After amputation, how will my lifestyle change?
Although the reality of the situation does involve significant lifestyle changes, most amputees find them to be very manageable. Some changes include having to put on a prosthesis in the morning and taking it off at night, caring for your residual limb & your prosthesis, and paying more attention to your overall health & fitness. Fortunately modern prosthetics are more comfortable, lighter, and more efficient than ever before, with rapid advances in technology leading to less restrictions for the amputee.
What are Comfort's accreditations & experience?
Comfort Prosthetics & Orthotics, is an ABC accredited facility, ABC has the highest national standards in prosthetics & orthotics, and all of our practitioners are ABC certified. In addition, we are NCOPE accredited to teach O&P residents. Beyond our accreditations, we have over 100 years of combined experience just between our senior practitioners; two fellows of the Academy and thousands of happy patients.
How long does a prosthetic last?
Every case is different, but maintaining a consistent weight and living an active lifestyle will help your limb shape and size stay within a narrow range. Since a prosthetic socket is a solid object, it will not conform to a wide range of limb volume fluctuations; fortunately however liners and socks can help accommodate lost volume. Excess weight gain will develop a need for a new prosthetic socket. In addition; manufacturer's warranties, state and federal laws, and other significant life events can lead to the need for a new prosthesis.
What happens after my amputation?
Ideally, you will meet your prosthetist before the amputation surgery occurs; realistically this is not always possible. However, as soon as your prosthetist is notified, he or she will come to evaluate your residual limb and, in most cases, apply a protective dressing. As the limb heals from the amputation, it will swell with fluid from the surgery and decreased circulation, your prosthetist will apply a compressive dressing to help remove this fluid and shape the limb simultaneously. When the clinical team decides you're ready, you will begin to be fit for a temporary, or training prosthetic.
How long does it take to learn how to walk in a prosthesis?
Although we take pride in our successful patient outcomes, just how quickly you get there is dependent on you! Once you have a well fit device, exercise, physical therapy, physical training and - most importantly - regular walking will help you become a more proficient prosthetic user.
How long does it take to get a prosthesis/orthosis?
At Comfort Prosthetics, we realize that there are many different scenarios which can lead to different prosthetic timelines. The average patient may take 3-4weeks; however we have positioned ourselves to be able to respond to same day requests when needed. We are able to do this because we keep over 97% of our fabrication in house, performed by ABC certified technicians, with unlimited selection of prosthetic componentry.
Is my prosthetic or orthotic device covered by my insurance?
Insurance coverage is variable, with policies changing and updating all the time, however the average insurance carrier will have enough coverage for most of the prosthetic & orthotic costs. Both Medicare and Medicaid patients have some prosthetic and orthotic coverage. Additionally, we encourage you to contact us and schedule a consultation; as we are always willing to find additional funding sources for our patients in need.