FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
 
HOPE is committed to sharing clinical and technical experience and expertise gained from working for almost two decades in prosthetics and orthotics. In response to inquiries from all over the world, we have assembled a list of questions that we are most frequently asked.
 
 
   
 

Q: What is Prosthetics?

The field of prosthetics involves the design, fabrication, and fitting of artificial limbs (prostheses) intended to replace a portion of the body that has been lost through amputation or was absent at birth (congenital). For example, this may range from a cosmetic replacement to a prosthetic leg or a myoelectric hand or arm.

 
 

Q: What is Othotics?

The field of orthotics involves the design, fabrication and fitting of orthoses (braces or splints) intended to prevent or correct deformities, protect a painful part of the body or improve the function of a weakened extremity.
This may include anything from custom fabricated arch supports to braces for the knee, back, shoulder or arm.
 
 

Q: What is Orthosis?

A: An orthosis is an orthopedic brace or appliance that is designed to provide support to ailing, frail, or malfunctioning joints and/or muscles. Also used to improve the function of a body part or to reduce pain during normal daily activities.
 
 

Q: What is Prosthesis?

A: Externally applied device used to replace wholly, or in part, an absent or
deficient limb.
 
 

Q: Will I need a physician's prescription for getting orthosis or prosthesis?

A: Yes. An orthotic and/or prosthetic device may bring change in your body in one way or another. Therefore, your own physician's / surgeon's approval / prescription will ensure proper treatment of your physical condition for a better way of life. If you do not have prescription, our qualified consultant here can write for you. An initial consultation with us does not require a prescription.
 
 

Q: What are Prosthetists and Orthotists and what do they do?

A: Prosthetists and Orthotists are unique paramedical health professionals who provide biomechanical devices; called prostheses and orthoses, to physically disabled persons to enable them to function better.

Q: What is myoelectric?

A: The term myoelectric refers to the amplification and use of the naturally occurring electrical properties of muscle tissue.

Q: Will my child be able to operate a myoelectric prosthetic device? It seems very complicated.

A: Myoelectric devices operate by reading electrical impulses through sensors placed on the skin. Most children, even very young ones can learn to use a myoelectric device quickly and easily.

Q: I'm facing an amputation in the near future, is it too soon to conatct you?

A: Absolutely not! One of the most important things that you can have during this time is peace of mind. By coming in for a tour of the facility, introduction to our staff, and a view of different options for componentry and materials, you can reduce any anxieties or concerns you may have about the process after an amputation and during the fitting of your prosthesis. Our clients tell us that taking advantage of this opportunity made a positive difference in their pre- and post-operative mindset.
 
 

Q: How soon after surgery am I ready to be fit for artificial limb?

A: The person who ultimately makes that decision is your doctor. Because we have a rehab consultant for prosthetics, you can make an appointment to discuss this matter. We require a prescription either from your medical doctor or our consultant in order to begin fabrication of prosthesis. Evaluations and consultations for limbs are always done free of charge. Our staff will take every opportunity to consult with your physician regarding your amputation, any medical precautions, and anything that could affect your options or expected outcome.

Q: How long will it take for my prosthesis to be fabricated?

A: Because HOPE has a full-scale fabrication lab on-site, we are able
to complete work very efficiently. For example, in modular system the check socket can be made next day depending upon the load of work. After try it takes few days for us to take note of alignment system of the prosthesis and the skin condition after putting body weight on the prosthesis through the socket interface. Amputee also needs a few days to learn balance on the new limb.

 
 

Q: Can I be given a list of clients who are my age and amputation level who are going to HOPE for their prosthesis?

A: HOPE has quite a large number of clients that allow us to use their
names for people who want information about HOPE. Upon request, you will be given a list of names of amputees who are relatively the same age and amputation level as you.

Q: I' hv been told that I have to go to a certain prosthetic provider. Do I have a choice?

A: You do have a choice, although you may not realize it. Most amputees have little time to prepare for fitting a limb and find themselves numb with grief to see a low quality limb.
Prosthetics is a medical specialty few people are acquainted with, including many health care professionals. However, there are many differences among practitioners, and amputees and their families need to take the time to gather information and learn about the many options of limb fitting available with different practitioners.
We advise that you become an informed consumer. The Hope recommends that patients contact several prosthetic facilities and consult with each before making a choice. Talking to other amputees as well can help to educate a new amputee as to what options are available. In most cases, even if one prosthetist made you a preparatory artificial limb, you can select a different prosthetist to make your permanent prosthesis.

HOPE offers no-obligation consultations to all amputees wishing to learn more about our facility. Feel free to give us a call on 042-5177790-3.

Q: How much will my orthosis/prosthesis cost?

A: We cannot give estimates on the cost of a device without our practitioner seeing you first because of the varying additions many custom products require. After your initial evaluation we will be happy to provide any estimates of the costs of the various components of your orthosis/prosthesis. Our clinical and administrative staffs are also happy to provide you any information pertaining to your device.

Q: Will my residual limb change size?

A: Yes, your residual limb will shrink as the swelling goes down. It will change from a bulbous shape to a thinner, cone shape. There are various methods for reducing swelling, such as wrapping the limb and exercising it.

Q: What would be the effect on my prosthesis after any change in residual limb size?

A: The change in the size i.e. reduction of the volume of the stump would cause loosening of the limb and slipping down of the prosthesis and need for more socks could be the initial signs?

Q: What we should do if there is loosing of the limb?

A: Initial loosening has to be reported back to the facility. In below the knee limbs you can add more stump socks to the residual limb and in above the knee limb you have to adopt measures as per the design of the socket.

Q: What if my orthotic or prosthetic does nnot work?

A: Our orthotists and prosthetists stand behind the design fit and function of every custom made device. Oftentimes an adjustment to the device is needed to accommodate individual needs is required.

Q: What changes will have to be made in my home?

A: The number of adaptations will depend on the type of amputation you've had.
For lower limb amputations, most likely, adaptations will have to be made in the bathroom. A seating commode shower chair, grab rails and detachable showerhead are most helpful when showering. Your home can also be made barrier-free with the use of lifts, elevators or ramps, which will help you, get around your home with the greatest of ease.

Q: Will I still be able to participate in sports?

A: Yes, there are amputees involved in just about every sport, from skiing to swimming. Most amputees, who have participated in sports prior to their amputations, can continue to do so. Several sports have organized programs for amputees at the competitive level. Your prosthetist may be able to make a special prosthesis for the sport you're interested in.

Q: How many disabled do you have on staff?

A: We have one polio affected lady Prosthetist in our staff. An amputee is care taker of our Muzaffarabad unit. We welcome qualified & trained staff irrespective of any disability.

Q: What is LIVINGSKIN?

A. LIVINGSKIN is a high-definition silicone prosthesis that is created to resemble human skin by simulating the three dermal layers of natural human skin. To ensure proper color matching and fit, every prosthesis is custom crafted to each individual and can be matched to any skin color.

Q: Do most insurance plans pay for limbs?

A: No. Not in Pakistan. Insurance companies here yet need to enhance their awareness on the subject of prosthetics. In developed countries most insurance plans pay for most or all of a medically necessary prosthesis.

Q: Do you provide state of the art components?

A: Yes, we believe that the patient should be provided the best products available today. We provide Otto Bock, Blatchford, Flex Foot, Ossur, Century XXII, Seattle, Orthoeurope, and many other components available on the market. We work closely with the patient to determine their needs and fit the components to the patient.
   
 
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