The Cost of a New Limb Can Add up Over a Lifetime

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ABCNews.com&#;April 25,

The price of a new prosthetic leg can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000. But even the most expensive prosthetic limbs are built to withstand only three to five years of wear and tear, meaning they will need to be replaced over the course of a lifetime, and they're not a one-time cost.

Ten days after the Boston Marathon bombing, the most gravely injured among the victims have begun the daunting road to recovery. At least 14 of those injured in the blasts had to have limbs amputated, and at least two people had multiple amputations.

Each prosthetic limb must be custom fit to every patient, and costs can add up. Once they're fitted with the prosthesis, patients also need to attend physical therapy for weeks or months.

"Depending on what components you get on it, [the cost] can vary greatly," said Glenn Garrison, director of prosthetics and orthotics at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. "They're probably in line with a cost of a car. It can be a pricey thing to work with."

With physical therapy, Garrison said amputees could start walking on their own within two to four weeks after receiving a prosthesis. According to Garrison, most patients will have one prosthesis for the first year, but will likely need a second one to accommodate their changing physique.

After that, a prosthesis usually wears out every three to five years, although Garrison said there were exceptions.

"I've seen people drive 20-year-old cars, and I've seen people walk on 20-year-old legs," said Garrison.

Read the full story at abcnews.go.com and abcnewsradioonline.com.

If you or a loved one has had a lower extremity amputation, you know a prosthetic leg is vital to maintain independence and an active lifestyle. Many medical procedures are prohibitively expensive, and the cost of a prosthesis is a concern for many people who require one. Today, Durrett&#;s Orthotics & Prosthetics breaks down the cost of a prosthetic leg.

Types of Prosthetic Legs

A transtibial (below the knee) prosthetic costs $3,000-24,000, while a transfemoral (above the knee) limb costs $5-70,000. The type of prosthesis you choose will determine the cost.

• Basic transtibial: $3,000-10,000.

• Flexible transtibial: $7,000-12,000.

• Hydraulic or mechanically assisted: $20,000-40,000.

• Computerized: $50,000 or more.

How Long Does a Prosthetic Leg Last?

Contact us to discuss your requirements of types of prosthetic foot. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

The cost of a prosthetic leg makes people wonder how long they can expect their prosthesis to last. Lower limb prostheses have an average lifespan of one to three years that is affected by a few factors:

• Prosthetic legs are made from various materials, including plastic, metal, and composites. Sturdier materials, like metal, generally last longer than plastic.

• The amount and type of activity you use your prosthesis for will also affect its longevity. Prosthetic legs are designed to withstand normal wear and tear, but if you frequently engage in high-impact activities, yours may only last for a short time. Similarly, if you are less active, you can expect a longer lifespan for your prosthetic leg.

• Any prosthesis will last longer if you properly care for and maintain it.

When Should You Replace a Prosthetic Leg?

You want to get as much use out of your prosthetic limb as possible, but continuing to use one that needs replacing can be painful and lead to injury. Indicators you should consider replacement include:

• Signs of wear and tear, such as large cracks or deep scratches.

• A poor fit that may require adjustment or replacement.

• Broken or damaged components that don&#;t function as they should.

• Changes in your physical health, like weight or your activity levels.

Caring for Prosthetics

Caring for a prosthetic leg is straightforward. Examine your prosthesis daily for damage, loose components, and unusual noises. Wash the liner daily with mild soap and warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. It&#;s crucial to thoroughly dry the liner before you wear the prosthetic leg. Another essential part of prosthetic care is not neglecting your residual limb. Check your skin daily for sores or redness, as these complications can make it difficult to wear your prosthetic leg.

Contact Us for Information About the Cost of Prosthetics

Durrett&#;s Orthotics & Prosthetics has provided exceptional care since . We are a family-owned business and value our relationships with patients and their families. Our team offers orthotic and prosthetic services for children and adults from our Edgewood, Kentucky, and Lawrenceburg, Indiana facilities.

Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and check our patient info page to prepare for your first visit.

Durrett&#;s Orthotics & Prosthetics is happy to serve Lawrenceburg, IN, Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaverlick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY, and Cincinnati, OH.

For more information, please visit categories of prosthetic feet.