If you’re reading this blog post, chances are you or someone you care about is living with a limb loss and interested in learning more about Osseointegration.
While Osseointegration is a fantastic option for many in the limb loss community, not every person living with an amputation is a suitable candidate. While a conversation with your Amputee Care Team is the best method to determine if your unique situation would make you a viable candidate, there are some basic factors to help you determine on your own if it might be a good choice.
If you answer yes to these following four questions, you may be a good candidate for Osseointegration:
- Do you experience problems with your socket like perspiration, skin irritation and pain?
- Is the distance you can walk limited because of your socket?
- Do you find it is uncomfortable to sit when wearing your socket?
- Do you suffer from back pain because of your posture and/or gait?
If you answer yes to the following three questions, you may not be a good candidate for Osseointegration:
- Do you smoke?
- Do you have low bone density?
- Are high-impact activities like running or downhill skiing an important part of your life?
What’s the next step?
If your answers to the questions above suggest that you may be a good candidate and you are interested in learning more, PBO Group’s Osseointegration 101 is a great resource to help you learn more about what is involved, the pros and cons, typical timelines and more.
After reviewing the material in the booklet, if you are interested in learning more, talk to your Prosthetist. If your Prosthetist is not familiar with the procedure, a PBO Group Prosthetist would be happy to take the time to chat with you and answer your questions during a phone appointment. Call us at 1.877.331.3395 to book a time.
