Types of Prosthetic Legs

Whether a person loses his leg from an accident, medical condition or other reason, a prosthetic or artificial leg can help that individual live a somewhat normal life. There are two basic types of prosthetic legs.

Below the Knee

• A trans-tibial, or below-the-knee prosthetic, is used when the patient has a stump of the leg remaining. They are designed with a socket, shank (shin) and a foot. Because the knee is still in place, the patient can usually find better mobility than those with an above-the-knee prosthetic.

Above the Knee

• The trans-femoral, or above-the-knee prosthetic, is for a patient that has lost her knee and the rest of her leg. These prosthetic legs are made of a socket, knee system, a shank and a foot. The above-the-knee prosthetic can be difficult for the patient to maneuver because of the detailed functionality of the artificial knee.

New Technology

• There are always new advancements to improve prosthetic legs. Otto Bock Healthcare has created the "C- leg," which is a very expensive prosthesis system that allows the patient to program it for running and cycling along with other athletic capabilities.

Cost

• In 2009, the cost for a below-the-knee prosthetic was anywhere from $6,000 to $8,000.

  An above-the-knee prosthetic can cost between $10,000 to $35,000.

History

• The National Academy of Sciences started the first Artificial Limb Program in 1945 to improve prosthetic technology over the wood and copper prosthetic legs that were being used.