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How much does a below the knee prosthetic leg cost
A transtibial (below the knee) prosthetic costs $3,000-24,000, while a transfemoral (above the knee) limb costs $5-70,000. The type of prosthesis you choose will determine the cost. Basic transtibial: $3,000-10,000. Flexible transtibial: $7,000-12,000.
- Hydraulic or mechanically assisted: $20,000-40,000.
- Computerized: $50,000 or more.
How Long Does a Prosthetic Leg Last?
The cost of a prosthetic leg makes people wonder how long they can expect their prosthesis to last. Lower limb prostheses have an average lifespan of one to three years that is affected by a few factors:
- Prosthetic legs are made from various materials, including plastic, metal, and composites. Sturdier materials, like metal, generally last longer than plastic.
- The amount and type of activity you use your prosthesis for will also affect its longevity. Prosthetic legs are designed to withstand normal wear and tear, but if you frequently engage in high-impact activities, yours may only last for a short time. Similarly, if you are less active, you can expect a longer lifespan for your prosthetic leg.
- Any prosthesis will last longer if you properly care for and maintain it.
When Should You Replace a Prosthetic Leg?
You want to get as much use out of your prosthetic limb as possible, but continuing to use one that needs replacing can be painful and lead to injury. Indicators you should consider replacement include:
- Signs of wear and tear, such as large cracks or deep scratches.
- A poor fit that may require adjustment or replacement.
- Broken or damaged components that don’t function as they should.
- Changes in your physical health, like weight or your activity levels.
Caring for Prosthetics
Caring for a prosthetic leg is straightforward. Examine your prosthesis daily for damage, loose components, and unusual noises. Wash the liner daily with mild soap and warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. It’s crucial to thoroughly dry the liner before you wear the prosthetic leg. Another essential part of prosthetic care is not neglecting your residual limb. Check your skin daily for sores or redness, as these complications can make it difficult to wear your prosthetic leg.
Contact Us for Information About the Cost of Prosthetics
Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics has provided exceptional care since 1958. We are a family-owned business and value our relationships with patients and their families. Our team offers orthotic and prosthetic services for children and adults from our Edgewood, Kentucky, and Lawrenceburg, Indiana facilities.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and check our patient info page to prepare for your first visit.
Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics is happy to serve Lawrenceburg, IN, Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaverlick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY, and Cincinnati, OH.
Types of Prosthetic Legs
What factors influence the cost of permanent prosthetic limbs? The type of prosthetic chosen, the features of the carbon foot, and the adjustable carbon socket are factors, as well as the brand.
Below the Knee Prosthetic Leg Cost
Transtibial prosthetics are tailored for individuals who have undergone amputations below the knee. These types of prosthetic devices generally enable a faster return to mobility, primarily because the knee joint is still intact. The cost of a prosthetic leg below the knee varies from $3,000 to $24,000, depending on the brand, the type of carbon foot, and the features of the silicone liner chosen.
| Brand | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ottobock | $4,000 | Type of carbon foot, silicone liner |
| Össur | $3,750 | Active vacuum system, carbon foot options |
Prosthetic Leg Above Knee Cost
Transfemoral prosthetics, designed for above-the-knee amputees, replace the leg above the knee and incorporate an additional knee joint. This inclusion often means higher energy expenditure for walking. The cost for above-the-knee prosthetics ranges from $5,000 to $70,000, varying based on factors like brand, the type of joint used, and the choice of carbon foot.
| Brand | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ottobock 3R80 | $8,500 | Type of joint, carbon foot |
| Ottobock 3R60 | $10,500 | Enhanced safety and mobility, particularly on challenging surfaces such as slopes and stairs |
Varieties of Prosthetic Leg Joints
Prosthetics vary primarily in their foot/ankle and knee joints.
Foot/Ankle Joints
Simpler models have a stationary foot/ankle, while others offer flexibility for smoother walking, often using materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. More advanced models feature multi-axial movement, mimicking natural ankle motion and adjusting to uneven terrain. Microprocessor foot and ankle systems, suitable for low to moderately active amputees, provide greater clearance and automatic adjustments.
Knee Joints
These range from simple manual lock mechanisms to more complex weight-activated locks that facilitate natural walking patterns. Advanced knees controlled by microprocessor units, pneumatic or hydraulic knees, allow for dynamic movement, adjusting to varying walking speeds. Hydraulic knees, as part of the more advanced knees, are ideal for active individuals needing to navigate stairs, uneven terrains, or longer distances.
What Is the Average Cost of a Prosthetic Leg in Las Cruces?
| Type of Prosthetic Leg | Average Cost of a Prosthetic Leg |
|---|---|
| Basic below-the-knee prosthetic | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Flexible basic below-the-knee prosthetic | $7,000 – $12,000 |
| Hydraulic or mechanical assistance | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Computerized prosthetic leg | $50,000 |
It is only possible to estimate the price of your complete prosthetic leg once your prosthetist has listed the recommended components. Below is a rough guideline:
For Patients with Health Insurance
Are prosthetics covered by insurance? Patients with health insurance will usually have out-of-pocket costs comprising copays for doctor visits and coinsurance ranging from 10% to 50%. Most prosthetic legs are insured.
However, the exact leg that’s covered will be contingent on the individual patient’s amputation level, condition, and needs. The basic prosthetic leg price may be covered for homebound people who need to move around the house.
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For Patients without Health Insurance
The cost of prosthetic legs can vary significantly depending on the type and extent of the amputation. For those without health insurance, a basic prosthetic leg can cost less than $10,000, while a more advanced, computerized prosthetic leg controlled by muscle movements can cost up to $70,000 or more.
Various non-profits provide financial aid or free prosthetic limbs for patients in need. The Amputee Coalition offers a list of financial resources and non-profits to minimize the burden of prosthetic leg prices.
What Should Be Included in Prosthetic Leg Price?
Included in the cost of prosthetics are the following:
- After amputation surgery, the patient visits a prosthetist, an expert in providing prostheses, a few weeks or months later. The prosthetist takes measurements of the patient and forms a cast of the stump to make a temporary prosthesis, which will be used for at least a year while the stump heals.
- After the residual limb has stabilized, the patient will return to the prosthetist to discuss the different kinds of permanent prosthetics. The professional will make another cast of the stump, and then the permanent prosthetic leg will be manufactured.
- The patient will return for a final fitting after undergoing tests with the prosthetic leg in the prosthetist’s office and during their daily activities.
What Are the Extra Artificial Leg Costs?
Patients may need physical and occupational therapy to learn how to do daily tasks at home or work:
- Physical therapy usually costs between $50 and $350 per session.
- Occupational therapy can range from $50 to $400 per session.
The research, published in the November 2020 issue of the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, uncovered a significant finding: a shorter time frame (0-3 months) for receiving a prosthesis not only led to improved overall rehabilitation outcomes but also correlated with reduced healthcare costs.
Conclusion: Get Expert Pricing
Now that you know how much a prosthetic leg typically costs, you may wish to explore your options. At PrimeCare Orthotics & Prosthetics, we understand that everyone’s prosthetic needs are unique.
Therefore, our team will work with you to determine what your insurance covers and create a solution tailored to your coverage and individual requirements. Please contact us for more information on our prosthetic leg range and insurance options.
