What to do in case of dissatisfaction with the wearing comfort of your leg prosthesis?

Wearing a leg prosthesis can be challenging at first. Sometimes it can take a while to get fully used to the prosthesis, but what if the wearing comfort is not satisfactory even after an adjustment period? This can be frustrating and even painful. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve your situation yourself.

1. Listen to your leg prosthesis: If you are dissatisfied with the wearing comfort of your leg prosthesis, it is important to listen to your body. Pain, irritation, or discomfort are signs that something is wrong. Don't wait too long to take action. A leg prosthesis should not be a constant source of pain or discomfort.
2. Discuss your problems with your prosthetist: The first step is to go back to the specialist who fitted your prosthesis. They can often make adjustments, such as adjusting the fit or using different materials. Sometimes a simple adjustment is enough to solve the problem. If that does not work, it is best to turn your ear to another prosthetist.
3. Ask for a second opinion about your leg prosthesis: If the adjustments to your leg prosthesis by your current prosthetist do not help sufficiently, consider asking for a second opinion about your leg prosthesis. Another prosthetist can take a fresh look at your situation and possibly suggest other solutions. A second opinion can offer insights that your original specialist may have missed. It can therefore lead to a significant improvement in your wearing comfort and the functionality of your leg prosthesis.

Where can you go for a second opinion in Flanders?

There are several centres and specialists in Belgium where you can go for a second opinion on the fit of your leg prosthesis. Here are a few options in Flanders:

• Rehabilitation centres: In specialised prosthesis rehabilitation centres such as prosthesis rehabilitation centre Geel and university hospitals such as UZ Leuven, UZ Gent and UZ Brussel you can go for a multidisciplinary approach. Prosthetists, physiotherapists and doctors experienced in prosthesis treatment work here.  
• Specialist orthopaedic prosthesis centres: Prosthesis centres such as at Spronken Orthopaedics or the Amputee Care Center in Genk offer specialised care in the field of prostheses. Here you can make an appointment for an evaluation and free advice on possible improvements. They partner with most hospitals, offer ISO 13485-certified devices and have access to the latest technologies and treatment methods. They are happy to work with your own rehabilitation doctor, surgeon and physiotherapist at your request.

Resolve dissatisfaction with the wearing comfort of your leg prosthesis
Dissatisfaction with the wearing comfort of your leg prosthesis is not something you need to keep walking around with. By taking timely action, discussing your problems with your current prosthetist and, if necessary, getting a second opinion, you can work towards a solution that significantly improves your quality of life.