Category Archives: Artificial Limbs

New Prosthetics in El Paso

Prosthetics in El Paso have certainly come a long way. It is really incredible to see what has been accomplished in this industry. One of the reasons that it has come such a long way is because of the technology that is available today. Here is one story on how technology in prosthetics is changing the field.

U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant Hanes Sides lost his hand while he was serving a tour over in Afghanistan. He wanted to get his life back to normalcy despite the lost of his hand. He did have a prosthetic hand but it was not functioning the way he wanted it to. He would have to move his thumb around on the prosthetic if he wanted to grab or pick something up.

However that is not a problem for Sides anymore. Sides’ prosthetic is now under the control of an IMES system, or also known as an implantable myolelectric senor system. This type of system uses ‘electrodes implanted within a patient’s remaining muscles’ to help the mobility of the thumb or other limbs that people might have trouble moving around.

The difference between this system and other prosthetics is where the sensors are placed.  In an IMES system, the sensors are implanted inside the muscles of the patient whereas sensors in other systems are placed on the skin. Yes the limb will be able to move and have some function but not the same function and mobility to properly move all fingers as with the IMES system.

If you have any questions about prosthetics in El Paso, TX, visit us here at 3901 Montana Ste. C. Or you can call us at 915.566.3440.

Prosthetic Treatment Center in El Paso

Questions For Your Prosthetic Treatment Center in El Paso

There may be many different questions surrounding a recent amputation. It is normal to have concerns about all the factors surrounding the need for an artificial limb. Your local prosthetic treatment center in El Paso can help guide you along the psychological and physical process. You may be wondering what happens after the amputation? Will your prosthetic limbs make life like it was before? A prosthetic limb is a replacement for a missing body part. Your artificial limb will never work as effectively as your natural limb, however you can still enjoy a productive life. Patients visiting a prosthetic treatment center in El Paso will be encouraged to apply their personal energy and willpower into the learning of the new prosthetic limb. The best recommendation for new amputees receiving treatment, is to work with the prosthetic treatment center in El Paso in order to have the best design of therapeutic treatment and training for your new limbs. How do prosthetic limbs stay on? It depends on the type of amputation and physical need that you have. If you live a very active lifestyle, you will need to be more careful in keeping your prosthetic device securely fitted to the residual limb. There are many different types of braces, straps and even suction type ways to sustain the artificial limb to the rest of the body. Your prosthetic treatment center in El Paso can asses your individual needs and recommend the best fitting device for your need. If for any reason, the prosthetic limb is not fitting correctly, you can always re-visit your physician and test out variations in better types of fitting and shapes conducive to your body. You may also need to schedule continuous visits with your physician depending on your age and the growth your body may be experiencing.

If you have any questions about prosthetics in El Paso, TX, visit us here at 3901 Montana Ste. C. Or you can call us at (915) 566-3440.

El Paso’s Orthotic Braces Clinic

Orthotic braces are designed to control, support and correct areas in the body that are out of alignment, or have an inappropriate angulation. It is important that the diagnosis and design of the best type of orthotic braces are applied to the body.

Common orthotic braces for your feet are:

-Pressure relief devices – these reduce or eliminate the pressure experienced by an imbalance in one or more areas of the body. Most commonly is the bottom of the foot. Special shoe and/or foot braces can help alleviate the pressure.

-Foot orthotics – specially made devices that are custom made to mold to your feet as inserts applied to your shoes. They may be recommended for a variety of reasons. If you are experiencing diabetic foot problems, metatarsalgia, or need pressure relief from sports, these foot orthotic braces can help. People usually have the habit of transitioning the bulk of their weight to one side of their body as they stand or sit for long periods of time. As the years go by and the habit of this is reinforced, a person may be causing a wearing down of the foot that usually receives the bulk of the body weight.

-Ankle foot orthotic braces are designed to support the ankle and foot from improper alignment. The brace molds to the shape of the ankle and addresses the problems being experienced specifically.

Consulting a local podiatrist is the best way to have all your questions and concerns answered. They can help to asses the specific issue and recommend the best treatment to be applied to support and correct the issue.

If you have any questions about orthotic braces in El Paso, TX, visit us here at 3901 Montana Ste. C. El Paso, Texas 79903. Or you can call us at (915) 566-3440.

Artificial Limbs in El Paso

The Main Components of Artificial Limbs in El Paso

Artificial limbs have improved from the former bulky materials such as wood and leather banding, into advanced plastics and carbon-fiber composites. Modern artificial limbs in our southwest region are improving the lives of our local residents with prosthetic limbs that are lighter and stronger. With the use of the latest technology artificial limbs in El Paso are more controllable and adapt better at the functioning of gripping and walking.

The main components of artificial limbs are:

  • The pylon- This is the internal frame of the artificial limb. The pylon is a structural support utilizing metal rods and in some cases lighter carbon-fiber composites. The cover can be shaped and colored to match the skin tone of the recipient.

  • The socket – this portion of the prosthetic ligament is the part that interfaces with the residual limb that needs to be conjoined with the artificial limb. It is fitted with precision in order to ensure the most secure fit but not so much to cause irritation or damage to the skin. Often, a soft lining will be placed on the socket area to protect the recipient’s residual limb as well as to secure a better fit.

  • The suspension system – this system is designed within the artificial limb to keep the limb attached to the body. It may come in several different types. You can have a harness, straps, belts or even a suction system for an airtight seal that will keep the prosthetic limb in place.

Most artificial limbs in El Paso will consist of these basic components in some form or another. The specific styles and shapes may vary depending on the type of amputation that was performed. Whether the amputation was performed above or below the major joints makes a big difference in the type of artificial limb in El Paso that our local residents will receive.

If you have any questions about artificial limbs in El Paso, visit us here at 3901 Montana Ste. C. El Paso, Texas 79903 Or you can call us at (915) 566-3440.

Artificial Limb Treatment, El Paso, TX

If you happen to have an artificial limb or prosthesis, it is very important for you to know about artificial limb treatment. This kind of treatment and care for your artificial limb can make them last longer. Here are some tips we have provided when it comes to prosthesis and artificial limb treatment.

One of the things you should do when it comes to limb treatment is take it easy. You should not try to do everything at a fast pace with one of these limbs, especially if you are a new amputee. It will take some time to get used to them. But over time you will learn how to do all your daily functions. Let you and your body get used to it at first.

Another thing when it comes to artificial limb treatment is to follow all the instructions you are given. Never go against the orders of your prosthetist. They know what kind of things you can and cannot do. Problems can occur if you do something that you aren’t supposed to do. And in the end it could end up costing you some more money.

A last thing to be aware of when it comes to limb treatment is not being afraid to ask questions. For a lot of people, this is a new thing for them. So do not hesitant to ask anything. A good rule of thumb is to write down any questions you may have so that the next time you see your prosthetist, you will remember to ask them.

If you have any questions about artificial limb treatment, visit us here at 3901 Montana Ste. C. Or you can call us at 915.566.3440.

Artificial Limbs, What are they? El Paso, Tx

artifical-limbs-el-paso-txArtificial limbs, or sometimes referred to as prosthetics, are limbs for people who have lost one of their limbs for a number of reasons. Some of the more common reasons why someone might have an artificial limb are: traumatic injuries, cancer, birth defects and circulation problems from atherosclerosis or diabetes.

If you happen to be in this position where you might need an artificial limb, there are some things you should be aware of. You should know that even though artificial limbs will not be anything like a natural limb, it will be able to serve you functions so you can live your daily life.

There are many different parts and looks to artificial limbs. Some of these factors will be depend on your case and what kind of prosthetic you will need. These questions will be answered when you talk to a physician about your situation and see what they recommend for you.

And should not be any worry about artificial limbs not fitting you. These limbs are custom made for you. They are conformed to your body to serve you. If it does happen that the artificial limb does not fit quite right, then we suggest talking to your doctor so the appropriate changes can be made as quick as possible.

The last thing we would like to point out is that it can be somewhat of difficult process to learn how to use them. It will require effort, strength and patience to fully use these limbs. But we would like to note that you are not in this process alone. Your doctor will be there to answer any questions you might have and therapists will be there to aid and guide you throughout the process.

If you have any questions about artificial limbs, visit us here at 3901 Montana Ste. C. Or you can call us at 915.566.3440. Click here to visit our website!