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Post by bassett on Mar 28, 2017 12:59:44 GMT -7
So, the title is a bit misleading, because I still haven't been fitted for a socket. But, the story goes, I was introduced to a prostetist in Savannah before I amputated. He is great. I was then introduced to a second prostetist the day before my surgery. The second guy is who my surgeon recommend, so I followed suit and decided to stick with him. Now, the 2 different guys had differing opinions in feet, but both continually talk about simply wanting the best for me. So, the issue is, the guy my Dr. recommended is 3 hours from my home. So, I'm going to stay with the first guy I found. My question is this, after meeting with one prostetist and having him explain his ideas for elevated vacuum and working into ems, and also specifically using ottobock and a urithain liner and a flexible inner socket liner and so on and so forth.... He convinced me that he knew what he was talking about. He gave me reasons not to use other companies vacuum technology, why not to use silicone liner instead of urithain, why I needed to have a mechanical system instead of mechanized. It was all very specific as to what he considers to be the best tech for me. Should I introduce all of those ideas to my guy closer to home, or let him decide his own plan of action? I don't want to offend anyone, but I do want the best set up. But, who am I to know if that is the best set up for me?
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Post by cherylm on Mar 29, 2017 1:02:57 GMT -7
Although your prosthetist is the "professional" when it comes to building your leg, he does actually work for YOU. You're certainly within your rights to suggest anything and everything you've heard about and ask for his opinions and options. Both of you theoretically have the same goal in mind...the best leg possible for you. That makes complete and open communication vital.
So DO bring up the other guy's ideas and see what the local guy has to say. You should expect him to 1) respect you, 2) present his opinions so that you can clearly understand them, and 3) appreciate the fact that you are involved in this entire process and want/need to be kept "in the loop."
It's your very first prosthetic leg...there is no way you can definitively know what will be the best possible set-up for you. That's what your leg guy is for...but he's going to need your help, suggestions, questions, and overall involvement. If he's the right guy for you, you'll develop a true partnership with him. The relationship between amputee and prosthetist is an intense and sometimes oddly "intimate" one: you should be able to talk to this guy about anything and everything that might have a bearing on your future mobility.
If he takes offense at your questions or suggestions, then you know that he's not the guy for you.
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roger
New Member
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Post by roger on May 22, 2017 21:48:26 GMT -7
As a LBKA for 17 years and also as a physician I have experienced quite a variety in the prosthetic world. The major thing to remember is anyone can buy technology which is more the science of the field but it is the exceptional individual that has the art of prosthetics completely understood and can create a socket that is suitable to your particular lifestyle. Having struggled with this for years and tried numerous legs from the "best" in Seattle and after talking to my orthopedic colleagues I was finally pointed to a "destination prosthetics" center. They have it setup that you fly in from anywhere, they have a fantastic 2 bedroom apartment for you and by the end of the week you have gone through casting, test socket and final socket. I have never had a better feeling socket. Over the years John has made some serious contributions to the field such as being the first to introduce Carbon fiber sockets. Now he has developed this further with a flexible inner liner. I simply cannot tell you how worth it is to just take the time, spend a week near Washington, DC and get something that really works. Give them a call - www.prostheticcarefacility.com. They are in Leesburg, VA. They take virtually all commercial and military insurance. They also do pro Bono work. He just got back from donating his skills in South Africa for children who are land mine victims. They get straight forward cases as well as the most difficult. I am happy to answer any questions. |
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Post by snowyh on May 23, 2017 2:01:44 GMT -7
Wow, Roger, what a wonderful endorsement! One doesn't often hear someone singing the praises of their prosthetist. Thanks for letting us know about this facility.
Helen
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