Prosthetist Questions Prosthetic Limbs

Do prosthetic limbs hurt?

I will get a prosthetic limb. Do prosthetic limbs hurt?

2 Answers

A properly fitted prosthesis should not hurt. The socket, which is the part that interfaces with the residual limb, is typically fabricated after fitting a diagnostic "check socket". During the check socket fitting, the prosthetist should make adjustments to any areas that cause discomfort in order to avoid pain and discomfort in the definitive socket. That being said, changes occur over time in the limb, which can lead to discomfort and sometimes pain. These issues should be addressed by your prosthetist to eliminate the discomfort or pain.
Generally speaking- No, if your amputated arm or leg isn't hurting, a Well Fitting prosthesis shouldn't cause you pain. Due to a recent surgery and/ or the unique pressure inside your first prosthetic socket, you may feel slight discomfort at first, but this should be minimal, should get better with time, and should not cause you "pain." If it does, the source of pain needs to be defined and resolved.
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