Prosthetics //
Real Life Prosthetics offers custom-made prosthetics that are designed with exacting specifications in their products to compliment the uniqueness of each patient. The fit is a primary concern with any prosthetic device. Technology has advanced to allow ever lighter weight with stronger and more functional prosthetics.
Here at Real Life Prosthetics we provide all stages of prosthetic development from the development of a form fitting socket that is designed to be an extension of an amputee's physiological body, to the selection of the most appropriate componentry to maximize the amputee's potential for living their life, and incorporate the most socially acceptable visual presentation available for each patient. From the simplest to the most sophisticated devices, we make sure the prosthetic is comfortable enough for constant wear and can be socially functional for the needs of each individual patient.
To achieve the best socket design, our experienced ABC Certified Prosthetists have available several methods. No matter which system is used to replicate the shape of the residual limb, the refinements are done by hand, sculpting the cast molding and building-up to allow for anatomical variances and sensitive areas in our technical lab located at our main office in Abingdon, Maryland.
PROSTHETIC SERVICES
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Partial Foot/PF (e.g. Chopart)
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Symes
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Below-Knee/BK (Transtibial)
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Above-Knee/AK (Transfemoral)
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Hemipelvectomy
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Hip Disarticulation/HD
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Partial Hand/PE (Transcarpal)
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Below-Elbow/BE (Transradial)
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Above-Elbow/AE (Transhumeral)
MORE PROSTHETIC
RESOURCES
Journey of an Amputee
Amputation is life changing and this information will help you understand what to expect.
Care & Use Videos
This collection of videos are to help you care and address some of the most common issues amputees have with their prostheses.
Care & Use Instructions
No more worries of misplacing the paper that has important information on how to care for your device... they will always be right here!
Please note that the Care & Use Instruction page is "password protected" and only accessible by current Real Life Prosthetic patients.
TRACER CAD SYSTEM
A state-of-the-art technology that gives Prosthetists the ability to manipulate virtual models while moving the tracer wand over a patient’s body, offering two key functions which are to capture shape and production.
Today's Technology //
One-of-a-Kind Custom Liners
Using Tracer CAD technology our Prosthetists have complete control with gel placement, pattern and thickness as well as fabric type and color for tailoring to patient limb shapes. Gel may be up to 25mm thick, which is especially useful on scarred or bony limbs when optimal comfort and protection is required.
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STRUCTURE SENSOR
The Structure projects a unique infrared pattern of dots out in front of it, and the infrared camera uses that pattern of dots to visualize the shape and distance of objects.
3D L.A.S.A.R. POSTURE SYSTEM
Laser Assisted Static Alignment Reference (L.A.S.A.R.) Posture System allows allows the visualization of the position of the body’s center while standing, and can be used to make effective the fixed alignment or to confirm the body posture during one’s trial fitting.
Fully Fabricated Custom Socket in a Single Visit!
Direct Socket //
The Direct Socket by Ossur is another fabrication option from the cast and plaster typically used by our practitioners. Using this method, the socket is fabricated directly on your residual limb, followed by minimal grinding on trim lines, adding componentry and ensuring proper alignment, you are walking out the same day with your custom prosthesis!
Call us today to see if the Direct Socket is right for you!
SUSPENSION SYSTEMS
Simply speaking, a prosthetic suspension system keeps the residual limb connected to the prosthesis. This connection is crucial to the overall prosthetic design, and the better that connection is, the greater the comfort, control, and proprioception will be for you.
Pin Lock
With pin lock liners, a silicone liner is rolled onto the residual limb creating a seal between the skin and the liner. The liner has a pin on the end that locks into the bottom of the prosthetic socket.
Suction
A suction system consists of a soft liner, a one-way valve and a sealing sleeve. Inserting your liner-covered limb into the socket and applying body weight as you stand expels excess air through the valve.
Elevated Vacuum
This vacuum prevents excessive motion within the socket which leads to unwanted friction and shear forces from occurring.
Transfemoral or Above-Knee Prosthetics //
Hydraulic and Microprocessor Knees
Each prosthesis has its own unique functionality and features which help you step over barriers and make your everyday life tasks easier without endangering stability. Obstacles soon become an inanimate part of life instead of an interference once introduced to this product.
Click on the links below to learn more!
Transtibial or Below Knee Prosthetics //
Hydraulic and Microprocessor Feet
Microprocessor feet are a type of hydraulic ankle/feet that use various sensors to continuously monitor your movement and adjust both the angle and stiffness of the hydraulic ankle in real-time.
Click on the links below to learn more!
The Pro-Flex® Family
Custom Lamination //
Real Life Prosthetics offers a free custom lamination service to patients who provide us with custom material or choose one of our custom resin pigments when anything other than the traditional colors are wanted.
In some of the materials that are given to us, the color can change from the original pattern that was brought in; it can either be a darkening as if the material is wet (which in a very real sense it is) or the pattern can bleed. Our technicians do their best to make sure that the pattern and material stays as true to form as possible, but depending on the color and material it may not always finish in the same way the patient has imagined. Please keep this in mind when selecting fabric. It is a complicated and time consuming process that we do not charge for, because it is truly a delight to our team to provide a more personalized device.
Our technicians have done some pretty cool laminations from showing one's patriotism to one's passion for Disney.
Upper Extremity Prosthetics //
Myoelectric
A myoelectric-controlled prosthesis is an externally powered artificial limb that you control with the electrical signals generated naturally by your own muscles.
Click on the links below to learn more!
Osseointegration //
What is Osseointegration?
Osseointegration is a surgical method designed to enhance the quality of life and boost functionality and movement for individuals who have undergone amputation. The procedure entails implanting a metal device into the remaining limb bone, creating a direct connection with a prosthesis and eliminating problems associated with sockets.
What types of Osseointegration are there?
There are two main approaches to osseointegration: screw-fit (OPRA) and press-fit. Press-fit implants usually follow a one-step process and can be applied to various body areas. On the other hand, screw-fit (OPRA) implants are specifically for transfemoral amputations and involve a two-step procedure.
Who is a good candidate for Osseointegration?
For those with above elbow (transhumeral) or above knee (transfemoral) amputations, osseointegration could be considered. It's a good choice if using a socket leads to problems such as sweating, skin issues, ulcers, or pain. Also, if there are limitations in prosthetic use because of pain, fatigue, or socket fit problems, osseointegration might be a helpful solution.
What are some advantages and dissadvantages of Osseointegration?
Osseointegration allows for bone and muscle mass in the residual limbs to slowly increase, as the bone and muscles are being actively used. As you get stronger, mobility increases as well. The nature of the implant allows for improved range of motion when compared with traditional prostheses.
A disadvantage could be with the surgical procedure having a potentially long recovery time. Need to regularly maintain and clean the interface between the skin and implant. Risk of superficial skin infections or deep tissue infections. Potential for the abutment to bend or break.
What is the Integrum OPRA™ Implant System?
The OPRA™ Implant System is an innovative method allowing the direct connection of an artificial limb to the skeleton. The prosthesis is firmly attached through a quick connection, which lets your prosthesis become a true extension of your body and mind, controlled by you. The system is available for both upper and lower limbs, and has given hundreds of amputees from all over the world the ability to once again enjoy what most people take for granted – ordinary, wonderful, daily stuff like free movement or feeling the ground you are walking on.