A prosthesis is an artificial body part that functions like the natural one. People often wear a prosthesis on their upper and/or lower extremities. Commonly, you may find adults wearing prosthetics. However, it is not limited to just them. Children often get prosthetics, as well. Children with limb differences by birth or by trauma may need a prosthetic to function in daily life.
Which Children Need Prosthetics?
Pediatric prosthetics is a specialty field and not all Prosthetists may be trained for this, so you may need to seek out someone with expertise in Pediatrics. If your child has the following conditions, then he/she may require a prosthetic;
1) If the child is born with a congenital disability. This defect may result in a difference of limbs or absence of an entire limb.
2) If the child has suffered from amputation due to injury or infection.
3) If the child cannot perform certain activities normally. These children may need prosthetics for a specific period. As soon as the condition improves, these prosthetics are no longer of use.
The Process of Getting a Pediatric Prosthetic
The design and fit of the pediatric prosthetic depend upon the size of the residual limb. A Prosthetist gets specialized training for this purpose. You will need to set an appointment with the Prosthetist for an evaluation.
1. Assessment of Your Child’s Condition
During this appointment, the prosthetist will assess your child. Your child will have to give a measurement of his residual limb. There are specific considerations in this regard. Such as if the child is in growing age, then he will need continuous changes in the prosthetics.
2. Fitting of Prosthetic
The prosthetist will fit your child with a prosthetic socket. Your children will test out the prosthesis. An open discussion with the prosthetist about any pain or uncomfortable feeling is necessary. However, you should keep in mind that it would take time for your child to adjust to the prosthesis. A physiotherapist will help your child learn how to perform daily tasks with their newly acquired limb.
3. Follow-up
Your child is growing. Their body tends to change as they grow. Which will require constant alterations in the prosthesis. These appointments will help to analyze if your child's prosthesis needs any changes.
Recreational Pediatric Prosthetics
Your child will go through the active stage of his life with these prosthetics. They will want to take part in sports or play in the water like other kids. That is where recreational pediatric prosthetics play their part. These prosthetics are light in weight. They can help your child to swim, run, and play; however, he/she wants.
Their Success Depends on You
They often do not like these new artificial limbs. They will constantly need support and appreciation from their family, friends, and relatives. Be there when they need you, and continuously guide them on why prosthetics are good for them.
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