How to Learn to Walk on a Prosthetic Leg

Learning to walk on a prosthetic leg is somewhat complicated and requires more than reading about it. But there are basic functionalities of a prosthetic that the amputee needs to understand to operate it properly. There are two types of prosthetic legs: above the knee and below the knee. The type with the mechanical knee is the most difficult to learn to walk with. Following is a general overview of walking with one of these units, a Mauch S-N-S, as described by Bernice Kegel, a registered physical therapist with the Digital Resource Foundation for the Orthotics and Prosthetics Community.

Instructions

Steps for Swing and Stance of the Leg for Walking

• 1

  Position the lever at the top of the piston rod control to the down position, or for the swing and stance phase control functionality. This is used for normal walking and or for swinging the leg and standing. Swing the thigh forward and decelerate it. The shank should swing forward easily and be fully extended at heel strike.

• 2

  At the end of the stance phase, place the hip ahead of the knee and weight on the ball of the foot. This step helps disengage the stance phase operation and lets the knee swing freely. This is important on soft ground.

• 3

  Use a step-over-step method for going down stairs and ramps. Place the prosthetic heel on the lower step with the front of the foot extending over the edge of the step, Kegel recommends. Flex the hip forward while bearing weight on the prosthetic leg.