Being fitted with a new prosthetic limb or learning to walk in a prosthesis can be a very challenging time in someone’s life. In this article, we’ll discuss what K levels are and how we establish them, the different components of a prosthetic lower limb, and how to properly use prosthetic socks.
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We’ll also be answering common questions around amputation and prostheses then sharing some helpful community resources to guide you along the way.
K levels were established in by Medicare to better quantify the need and potential benefit of prosthetic devices for individuals that have experienced a lower limb amputation. This rating system is still used by insurance companies, Medicaid, and Medicare to determine eligibility for payment or reimbursement of funds.
The good news is that K levels can change as you continue to progress and accept new challenges, qualifying you for different components of your prosthetic. The main way to calculate your K level is through the Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP). We do this at both our inpatient and outpatient settings, Sheltering Arms Institute and Sheltering Arms Outpatient Physical Rehabilitation Centers.
To learn more about the Amputee Mobility Predictor, please visit the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ACRM) website.
A lower limb prosthetic is composed of 4 main components which include:
The socket component is created when the prosthetist takes a cast of your residual limb, usually 4 months after your amputation when the residual limb has had time to heal. It is positioned between the residual limb and the actual prosthesis.
They are customized and fitted for comfort based on the structure of the residual limb. These are used for both above-the-knee amputation (AKA) [image A] and below-the-knee amputation (BKA) [image B].
There are different knee joint components based on your K level.
The pylon is the component that provides the connection between the residual limb (leg stump) and the prosthetic foot. For AKA, it is between the knee joint and the foot, and for BKA, it is between the socket and the foot. It allows for shock absorption and helps for building the length of the leg.
There are different foot components based on your K level. This is appropriate for both above the knee and below the knee amputations.
Prosthetic socks come in different thicknesses (1-ply to 5-ply), with 1-ply being the thinnest and 5-ply the thickest. It is used to help accommodate for the shrinking of the residual limb and the ply in the morning may differ from the ply used in the evening due to swelling.
They are worn between the socket and the gel liner on the residual limb. The ply count can go above 5-ply but if you are starting to need 10-ply or above, it may be a sign that you should visit your prosthetist to be fitted for a new socket.
There are many reasons why your amputated limb may be swelling. One of the major causes of swelling in your residual limb is taking in too much salt. A simple change in your diet can help here. If needed, contact a dietician to help you create a meal plan that is right for you.
Another common reason for swelling to occur is not wearing a shrinker sock at night. A shrinker helps make sure your residual limb stays a nice consistent shape and size.
A more serious reason swelling could occur is an infection. If you get a cut or your incision opens up and becomes infected, swelling will be apparent.
There are also certain medical conditions like heart or kidney disease, impaired circulation, and uncontrolled diabetes that could be a cause of the swelling. Make an appointment with your doctor if your swelling does not go down.
When you do not wear enough ply socks, the prosthetic may move around too much. This can cause the foot to turn in or out and could cause a fall. You may also feel tightness at the bottom from dropping too deep into the socket.
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Others have expressed the feeling of the prosthesis being too short and, in some instances, skin breakdown occurs at the bottom of the residual limb from friction and rubbing.
Below is a list of different scenarios and reasons that may indicate the need to replace your prosthesis.
When it comes to prosthetic legs, keep in mind that no two users need the same solution. Every prosthetic leg should be customized for the person who will be using it.
The right prosthetic leg will depend on a variety of factors, including the person's limb difference, lifestyle, and preferred activities. Creating the right prosthetic solution is a team effort, involving the user, their doctor or surgeon, their physical therapist, and especially a certified prosthetist/orthotist (CPO).
A CPO is a clinical professional with specialized training in designing and fitting prosthetic legs. This expert works with you and your care team to identify the right set of prosthetic leg components, and then custom-build a socket that keeps you comfortable, safe, and active.
Your CPO will also be able to explain the fitting and training process, as well as how to properly care for your prosthetic leg on a daily basis. With the help of a CPO, you can feel confident that you're getting the right device for your needs.
Want to connect with a CPO who can help you find the right prosthetic leg? Click below to find a clinic near you.
When it comes to prosthetic legs, keep in mind that no two users need the same solution. Every prosthetic leg should be customized for the person who will be using it.
The right prosthetic leg will depend on a variety of factors, including the person's limb difference, lifestyle, and preferred activities. Creating the right prosthetic solution is a team effort, involving the user, their doctor or surgeon, their physical therapist, and especially a certified prosthetist/orthotist (CPO).
A CPO is a clinical professional with specialized training in designing and fitting prosthetic legs. This expert works with you and your care team to identify the right set of prosthetic leg components, and then custom-build a socket that keeps you comfortable, safe, and active.
Your CPO will also be able to explain the fitting and training process, as well as how to properly care for your prosthetic leg on a daily basis. With the help of a CPO, you can feel confident that you're getting the right device for your needs.
Want to connect with a CPO who can help you find the right prosthetic leg? Click below to find a clinic near you.
When it comes to prosthetic legs, keep in mind that no two users need the same solution. Every prosthetic leg should be customized for the person who will be using it.
The right prosthetic leg will depend on a variety of factors, including the person's limb difference, lifestyle, and preferred activities. Creating the right prosthetic solution is a team effort, involving the user, their doctor or surgeon, their physical therapist, and especially a certified prosthetist/orthotist (CPO).
A CPO is a clinical professional with specialized training in designing and fitting prosthetic legs. This expert works with you and your care team to identify the right set of prosthetic leg components, and then custom-build a socket that keeps you comfortable, safe, and active.
Your CPO will also be able to explain the fitting and training process, as well as how to properly care for your prosthetic leg on a daily basis. With the help of a CPO, you can feel confident that you're getting the right device for your needs.
Want to connect with a CPO who can help you find the right prosthetic leg? Click below to find a clinic near you.
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