Transfemoral (above knee)	Transtibial (below knee)

Each prosthesis made by Boland Prosthetic & Orthotic Center is custom designed and hand crafted to meet your needs.  The high tech components such as microprocessor controlled knees and energy storing and/or multi-axial feet have greatly improved the lives of many.  We are always excited about these advancements in our field, however, a comfortable and functional prosthesis begins with a properly fitted socket.  The socket is the part of the prosthesis that is the interface of the prosthesis with the residual limb.  The first question we often address is how do we want to suspend or hold the prosthesis on the limb.  The suspension of the prosthesis is vital to the comfort of the socket as well as the health of the skin.  Many of the suspension devices also serve to provide a second skin affect protecting the limb from friction. This can be done with roll on silicone locking liners, seal in suspension liners, cushion liners with a sealing sleeve or the new aura system.   Some questions we consider when selecting the suspension method include:  How easy will it be to put on or take off?  Is this a newly healed or mature residual limb?  What is the length of the limb?  Is knee stability an issue?  Does the shape or sensitivity of the limb require use of a custom liner? By thoroughly addressing and discussing these options during the evaluation we ensure that you know what your choices are and why you may prefer one over another.   Our process of innovation is simple we try to give people what they want.  This has led us to utilize the newest technology available and to innovate new socket designs in our lab such as a unique double wall socket design that has greatly enhanced comfort, function and skin health.

The process of fitting a prosthesis

1. Shrinker fitting

The step by step process of fitting a prosthesis is guided by your healing speed and your physician. The first step usually begins with the fitting of a compression sock called a shrinker. A shrinker is usually fit after removal of the staples or stitches if the suture line is closed. The shrinker helps to aid circulation and reduce swelling. This is an important step to shape the residual limb in preparation for casting.

2. Casting

Usually after 2 to 4 weeks of wearing a shrinker the initial swelling has gone down and the suture line has healed well enough for casting. The residual limb is wrapped in a plaster cast which is then hand shaped to distribute the desired amount of pressure to key areas on the residual limb. When the cast has hardened it is then removed and used to create a mold of the limb.

3. Check socket fitting

The next visit will be the check socket fitting. The check socket is a clear plastic cup which has been formed over the mold of the limb. When applied we will check the fit to ensure proper pressure distribution and tightness. If the fit is appropriate we will be ready to finish the prosthesis.

4. Prosthesis fitting

Finally, we will fit your prosthesis. During this visit the user will stand, weight bear and walk on the prosthesis in the parallel bars. We will be making fine tune adjustments to ensure ideal alignment, comfort and function. Physical therapy is always encouraged to help the prosthetic user regain the function and independence they had prior to the amputation.