FAQ – frequently asked questions

• Why do I feel pain in my residual limb? What can I do about it?

  Various types of pain may occur in your residual limb after an amputation. These may include bone pain, wound pain, nerve pain or phantom pain. Pain is treated according to the cause (e.g. with medication, heat / cold, wrapping the residual limb). Please talk to your specialist and / or pain therapist.

• When I touch my skin on the residual limb, it feels "strange". What can I do about it?

  Sensitivity disturbances may occur on the residual limb following an amputation. This is because nerves are severed during the operation. Such unfamiliar sensations usually normalise on their own after some time. However, you can support this process by subjecting the residual limb to various sensory stimuli; for example, you can rub the skin with a terry towel or soft brush.

• Why can't I be fitted with a prosthesis shortly after the amputation?

  After the operation, the residual limb is still swollen and the skin is sensitive. The wound also needs time to heal properly. Ensure that all required therapeutic measures are completed before the prosthetic fitting process begins.

• How long will it take before I can control the prosthesis fully?

  There is no standard answer to this question. How long you will need in order to take full advantage of all the options offered by your prosthesis depends on many factors: The cause of amputation, amputation level, residual limb condition, capabilities of the sound side and more. Your level of motivation is another important factor: If you start preparing for the prosthetic fitting shortly after the operation and later train often and intensively with the prosthesis, you will help reduce the time it takes you to reach your personal goals.

• Will I be able to drive a car with the prosthesis?

  Please contact the applicable authorities in regards to this question. The ability to drive following an amputation is assessed differently from one country to the next. In many cases, only vehicles with an automatic transmission may be operated.

• What do I need to observe when cycling with my prosthesis?

  Your ability to ride a bicycle depends on the amputation level and the type of prosthesis you were fitted with. In any case, you should first test your abilities on a stationary bike and only switch to a normal bicycle after a successful test.

• Can I return to work with my prosthesis?

  Depending on your occupation, you can return to work with your prosthesis. If your work involves extreme physical strain, you should let your orthopaedic technician know before the prosthesis is fabricated since the type of stress affects the characteristics of the socket and the selection of components.

• When will I need a new prosthesis?

  Once again, there is no standard answer to this question. If the socket of your prosthesis fits well over the long term and no difficulties arise, you do not need a new prosthesis.