Prosthetics

21 Apr 2021

Prosthetic Services

prosthetic services

Pelican Orthotics and Prosthetics designs prostheses “artificial limbs” for individuals of all ages. We treat patients who have limb loss due to trauma, disease processes such as diabetes, or who were born with an absent or under-developed limb. Our custom-fitted devices help to improve walking, running, grasping, balance, and other movements and functions. We work closely with our patients evaluating each of their individual needs and collaborating with their providers to provide the best quality of care and to assist in their road to recovery.

Our prosthetic services include:

Lower Extremity Prosthetics

Transfemoral (above the knee)
- Microprocessor knees
- Numerous types of socket design
Transtibial (below the knee)
- Microprocessor feet
- Numerous types of socket design
Hip Disarticulation
Knee Disarticulation
Symes
Partial Foot

Upper Extremity Prosthetics

Transhumeral (above elbow)
- Myoelectric and body-powered
Transradial (below elbow)
- Myoelectric and body-powered
Shoulder Disarticulation
Elbow Disarticulation
Wrist Disarticulation
Partial Hand
Finger Prosthesis
Myoelectric Hand

Process of Treatment

Initial Evaluation

At the initial evaluation, you will be asked questions about your medical history, pre-amputation level of function, and what your goals are for the future.

Based on how you answer these questions, your prosthetist begins the process of deciding what type of prosthesis will work best for you. You will usually receive a shrinker, which is a snug-fitting sock that begins shaping your limb for use with a prosthesis.

Measurement

At this visit, you will be measured for your new prosthesis. Numerous precise measurements will be taken of your limb for the purpose of making your socket. The socket is the part of a prosthesis that your arm or leg actually fits inside of. Your limb will either be casted or a 3-D scan will be taken to record the shape and size.

Diagnostic Fitting

At this visit, you will be fitted with a diagnostic socket, also known as a check socket. This is a clear plastic socket that allows the prosthetist to see inside and “check” the fit of your new prosthesis. Many check socket fittings are dynamic, meaning you actually take steps in the parallel bars and get your first experience of what it’s like to use a prosthesis. This fitting check also allows the prosthetist to make any changes to your socket before the final delivery.

Definitive Delivery

The definitive delivery is a very exciting day in the life of a new amputee. This is the day that you get to take your new prosthesis home with you and begin your new life as a prosthetic wearer. The prosthetist will once again check to make sure everything is fitting properly and you will get practice walking in the parallel bars. Once proper fit and alignment of the prosthesis have been established, a final safety check will be performed before you are able to leave the office with your new prosthesis for the first time. At this point, you should start going to therapy so you can immediately begin the process of regaining your strength and balance and learn how to better use your new prosthesis.