Your First Artificial Leg: What Happens From Assessment to Walking
Whether you have had an amputation or a limb difference since birth, the idea of a first prosthesis can bring up a lot of questions. People search for terms like artificial leg, artificial limb, prosthetic leg and even fake leg. However you refer to it, you will be having the same conversation with a prosthetist. This is what it usually involves.
A Quick Note on Words
Prosthesis, prosthetic leg and artificial leg all mean the same thing. Prosthetists tend to say prosthesis or prosthetic, and many people just say leg. There is no right word, and we will use whichever you prefer.
The Journey, Step by Step
1. Initial Assessment
Your prosthetist will ask about your health, your daily life and your goals, then assess your residual limb, your strength, your balance and your skin. Where you can, bring your physiotherapist's or surgeon's notes. This is also the time to tell us what matters to you, whether that is walking to the letterbox, returning to work, playing sport or being able to get down on the floor with your kids.
2. Scanning or Casting
We take a 3D scan or a cast of your residual limb. This becomes the basis for your socket, which is the part that fits around your limb.
3. The Check Socket
Before making your definitive socket, we make a trial version called a check socket. It is used to test the shape, comfort and fit in real life. At XPO, we can 3D print check sockets in our own workshop. Check sockets are typically worn for two or three weeks before moving to a definitive socket, and adjustments are made along the way.
4. Choosing Components
The components include the foot, the knee (if you have a transfemoral amputation), the liner and the way the prosthesis attaches to you. The right choices depend on your activity level, body, goals and funding. Ask your prosthetist to explain the options and why they recommend one over another.
5. Fitting and Alignment
Once the prosthesis is assembled, your prosthetist adjusts its alignment while you stand and walk, usually with support such as parallel bars at first. Good alignment matters for comfort and for how efficiently you walk.
6. Learning to Walk With Your Prosthesis
Working with a physiotherapist is a key part of the process. They will help you with balance, weight-bearing, walking patterns and building up wear time. Most people begin with short periods and build up gradually as the skin and limb adapt.
7. Reviews and Ongoing Care
The first few weeks usually involve several adjustments, and reviews continue as your limb, activity and goals change. Over time, components can be updated, and you may move to a new socket or a different foot.
Tips for the First Few Weeks
Build up gradually. Follow your prosthetist's wear-time plan rather than doing too much too soon.
Check your skin every day. New pressure areas are common early on, and catching them early makes them easier to manage.
Expect to feel tired. Walking with a prosthesis often takes more effort at first, and stamina builds over time.
Keep a note of what you notice. Rubbing, looseness or odd noises are all useful details for your prosthetist.
Practise what you learn in physio. Short, regular practice tends to help more than one long session.
Ask for help early. Small problems are easier to fix than big ones.
How Long Does It Take?
It varies. It depends on your surgery and healing, your general health, how quickly your limb settles, funding approvals and how much time you have for appointments. Your prosthetist can give you a realistic view based on your circumstances.
Questions Worth Asking Your Prosthetist
What are my options for the socket, liner and foot, and why do you recommend this one?
How many appointments should I expect, and how long between them?
What should I do if my limb changes or my skin becomes sore between appointments?
What is covered by my funding, and what paperwork do you need from me?
How do repairs and servicing work, and what if I need help when I am away from home?
You Have a Choice of Provider
You are entitled to choose the provider who looks after your prosthetic care. If you have been told otherwise, or you are unsure about the arrangements that apply to your situation, contact us and we are happy to talk it through.
Funding Pathways
Prosthetic funding can come through the NDIS, DVA, state schemes, insurance or private funding, depending on your circumstances. We are an NDIS provider and can help you understand what is needed, including quotes and supporting information. Approval times can vary, so it helps to start early.
Involving Your Family and Carers
A first prosthesis affects the people around you as well. Family members and carers often want to help, and it can be useful to bring someone to appointments so they can ask questions, hear the same information you do and learn how to support your skin checks, donning and practice. If it suits you, ask your prosthetist to show them the basics, and keep a list of contacts for when questions come up between visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an artificial leg and a prosthetic leg?
Nothing. Prosthetic leg, artificial leg and prosthesis all refer to the same device. Prosthetists commonly use prosthesis or prosthetic.
How long does it take to get a first prosthetic leg?
It varies depending on healing, funding approvals and your individual circumstances. Your prosthetist can give you a realistic estimate after assessing you.
What is a check socket?
A check socket is a trial socket used to test the shape and fit before the definitive socket is made. It is typically worn for a couple of weeks while adjustments are made.
Next Step
Talk to our team about your first prosthesis, or a second opinion on your current one. Call (02) 4415 9510 or visit x-tremity.com to arrange an assessment at one of our clinics or regional outreach locations.