Testing your prosthesis is important

Having your prosthesis tested and aligned at an ISO 13485 quality-certified measurement laboratory or ganglab, like the one at Amputee Care Center in Genk, Belgium, is important to ensure that your arm or leg prosthesis functions optimally, fits comfortably and supports your movements as naturally as possible. 

Through a test with pressure sensors and cameras, you will gain insight into efficiency so that our prosthetic specialists can adjust your prosthesis perfectly and prevent any complaints.

• You get an objective analysis of your movements. Not just by feel, but with measurable data.
• Our orthopaedic technologists can adjust your prosthesis so that you move more efficiently and comfortably.
• By testing different settings or components, you choose the best prosthesis for your situation.
• Prevents overloading and complaints due to incorrect weight distribution or unnatural movements.

Measuring is knowing and you need that if you want to get maximum efficiency from your leg prosthesis. At the Amputee Care Center, the things we measure include:

Fit and comfort:

• Does the prosthetic socket feel comfortable on your stump, without pressure points or irritation?
• Does the socket fit well without being too tight or too loose?
• Do you continue to experience the same comfort throughout the day, even after extended periods of sitting or walking?

Functionality and freedom of movement:

• Can you walk smoothly and naturally, without feeling like your prosthesis is working against or hindering you?
• How does your prosthesis react on different surfaces, such as slippery floors, carpet, grass, uneven terrain, a slope and climbing stairs?
• Does the gait of your prosthetic foot feel natural and stable? Can a shoe fitting or a pair of custom-made (orthopaedic shoes) help?
• Is there good bilateral symmetry with your other leg and foot? 

Stockings or liner adjustment:

• Does the chosen liner or stocking work well with your skin and provide a stable fit?
• Are there no pressure points or friction that could cause irritation or wounds?

Does the prosthesis suit your lifestyle and activity level?

• Does the prosthesis fit your daily activities, such as work, sports or hobbies?
• Is the chosen prosthetic socket and foot or ankle mechanism suitable for the movements you make most often?

With an upper leg prosthesis, we additionally test:

Stability and balance:

• Can you stand stably without feeling like you are sinking through the knee?
• Does the prosthesis feel firm and secure when standing up and sitting down?
• Can you turn and change direction without difficulty?

Energy consumption and fatigue:

• Do you feel extra effort when walking, or is it effortless?
• Can you walk or run longer distances without tiring faster than usual?

Shock absorption and impact:

• How does the prosthesis feel during activities such as climbing stairs or running?
• Is there sufficient cushioning at impact moments, such as on hard surfaces?

Yes, you can test different prosthetic feet for each leg prosthesis at our prosthetics centre. This way, you will discover whether a passive prosthetic foot is the best choice for you or whether you would benefit more from a dynamic prosthetic foot or an advanced sports foot.

Before purchasing a special prosthetic foot or a sports prosthesis, it is possible to try it out first at Amputee Care Center. 

At the Amputee Care Center, you can try or get measured for various prosthetic knees. Test various knees from different manufacturers. We offer a wide range. Trying different types of prosthetic knees is crucial before making a decision!

We guide amputees through the whole process and help you apply for approval (reimbursement or authorisation). These advanced electronically controlled knees dynamically adjust to your walking pace and surface, allowing you to move more smoothly and safely. Make an informed choice and choose a prosthetic knee you feel most comfortable with.

Measuring is knowing and you need that if you want to get maximum efficiency from your arm prosthesis or hand prosthesis. At the Amputee Care Center, we measure, among other things:

• Freedom of movement for smooth and effortless use.
• Grip and strength so you can hold objects properly.
• Reaction speed to simulate natural movements.
• Precision for fine motor tasks.

A 3D printed fitting prosthesis helps you test the fit, comfort and aesthetics of your arm prosthesis before making a final choice for a new one. This allows you to experience how the arm prosthesis feels, whether any adjustments or special attachments are needed for a natural and comfortable wearing experience. In addition, you get the chance to assess the appearance and make any improvements.  It avoids unnecessary costs and ensures that your final arm prosthesis fits your needs perfectly. With this testing phase, you will make an informed choice and we can confidently make your perfect arm prosthesis. We also make 3D printed trial prostheses for newborn children with arm amputations, which we can grow with your child. 

By having your arm prosthesis with mechanical action (grip function) tested, you experience how well you can operate your prosthesis, whether the grip is sufficient and how natural the movements feel. 

Do you want a new arm prosthesis? Nowadays, dynamic people, from an early age, are increasingly opting for a myo-electric or bionic arm prosthesis, because it makes prosthetic use easier and very user-friendly. But maybe you don't need these advanced features and prefer a strong working prosthesis with mechanical parts? The mechanical arm prosthesis remains a popular choice. Make a no-obligation appointment to have your mechanical working prosthesis or sports prosthesis tested.

Do you need a new myoelectric prosthesis? Then your prosthetist will fit a trial prosthesis or trial socket for you, tailored to your anatomy and functionality needs. During the trial period, you will have the opportunity to experience different brands of prosthetic parts or components. Consider various types of prosthetic hands (e.g. with multiple grasping functions), wrist mechanisms (such as rotating or flexible wrists) and the positioning of electrodes that detect muscle control.

The importance of a testing or fitting phase of a myoelectric arm prosthesis cannot be overemphasised. This period allows you to assess how the prosthesis functions in your daily life, whether it is comfortable and intuitive to use, and whether any adjustments are needed to better tailor the prosthesis to your needs. This thorough evaluation will help you avoid future discomfort and ensure that the final prosthesis is a valuable addition to your quality of life.

As a prosthesis wearer, you can test various high-tech prosthetic components at the Amputee Care Center in Genk, such as those from Ottobock, Open Bionics and Össur.

• Open Bionics has the opportunity to experience the Hero Arm. You can request a free demonstration via their website or through an arm prosthesis specialist at the Amputee Care Center.
• Testing an Ottobock bebionic hand or testing Ossur's i-Limb Quantum can be done at the Amputee Care Center, after evaluation by one of our prosthetics specialists. 

During arm prosthesis testing, you can evaluate various prosthetic components, such as the prosthetic hand and electrode placement. Costs vary based on the type of prosthesis and adjustments. It is smart to contact the patient coordinator at the Amputee Care Center in Genk, Belgium, directly for more information and for specific price indications. 

Open-Bionics' Hero-Arm is currently the most popular bionic arm prosthesis on the market. The Hero concept behind this arm prosthesis has taken prosthetic wearing to new heights! Young children and teenagers are discovering freedom and are super proud of their bionic appearance. Request child prosthesis trials at the Amputee Care Center in Genk and discover more options and high-tech solutions for your child.

At the Amputee Care Center, we make prostheses with precision. Making a trial prosthesis or fitting prosthesis can, in some cases, add value. What do we look at then? 

• Functionality: Make sure you are sure the prosthesis can perform the desired movements and functions you need in everyday life.
• Fit and comfort: A good fit prevents discomfort, skin irritation and possible injury
• Safety: Testing the prosthesis helps identify any weaknesses or defects that may compromise your safety.
• Fitting: Every prosthesis wearer has unique needs and activities. Testing ensures that you can be sure the prosthesis is adapted to these.

Yes you can! The Amputee Care Center (ACC) is a leading partner of rehabilitation centres and an authorised supplier of customised arm and leg prostheses. On request, we work with university and general hospitals, rehabilitation centres, all physician specialists, general practitioners and physiotherapists in Belgium and the Netherlands to carry out tests and create a prosthesis that fits you perfectly. Contact us yourself or via your doctor (general practitioner, rehabilitation doctor, amputation surgeon) or physiotherapist and ask to invite us for an appointment at your rehabilitation centre. 

In Belgium, you can request approval for a microprocessor-assisted knee replacement (MCK) through approved rehabilitation centres and university hospitals. Amputee Care Center's prosthetists will help you get an MCK or MPK test knee and guide you throughout the process.

The process begins with an evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, consisting of a physician specialist, physiotherapist and occupational therapist, to determine whether an MCK MPK is right for you. You then go through a trial period during which you try out the MCK and undergo training to become familiar with the prosthesis. After successful evaluation, a reimbursement application is submitted to the NIHDI. Since February 2021, the NIHDI in Belgium will provide reimbursement for certain MCKs, provided you meet specific criteria such as amputation level and activity group. 

In the Netherlands, you can test a microprocessor-assisted knee replacement (MCK/MPK) at specialised orthopaedic centres such as the Amputee Care Center. We recommend that you contact us for a referral to a suitable testing centre. The testing process usually includes an assessment of your mobility needs, fitting of a trial prosthesis and a test period to assess functionality and fit. 

Regarding reimbursement: in the Netherlands, the provision of prostheses is regulated through the basic health insurance. The exact coverage and any co-payments may vary by insurer and individual situation. It is therefore important to contact your health insurer in advance to clarify reimbursement conditions and the application process. MCK/MPK testing is essential to ensure that the prosthesis fits your specific needs and lifestyle and to ensure optimal functionality and comfort. The ACC (by Spronken Orthopaedics) is an approved prosthetic supplier to all health insurance companies in the Netherlands.

The length of the test period depends on your situation and the prosthetic components you want to try out. The trial period can vary from a few days to a few weeks and even up to three months. In our experience, it often takes several weeks before you are fully accustomed to a trial prosthesis and can make an informed decision.

At Amputee Care Center (ACC), both leg and arm prostheses are reimbursed from basic insurance or mutual insurance. An application must be submitted to your health insurer for each prosthesis, which requires a prescription from your doctor. It is wise to contact the Amputee Care Center directly for specific information on any costs associated with testing a prosthesis, having a fitting tube made and applications for an MCK. The Amputee Care Center's patient coordinator will inform you about the process and any reimbursements in Belgium and the Netherlands. 

Yes, we even encourage you to try out several options. That way you can be sure which one suits you best. You can also come to us for a free second opinion if you are unsure about your current prosthesis. With us, it is possible to test various prosthetic components before making a final choice. A trial prosthesis is manufactured during the fitting process so that you can experience the fit and functionality. This allows you to determine together with your orthopaedic consultant or prosthetist which components best suit your needs and preferences. For specific information on available testing options and possible costs, it is advisable to contact Amputee Care Center directly. We will provide detailed information and tailored guidance. 

No problem! Together, we will keep looking for the right solutions and adjust the prosthesis until you are completely satisfied. If you find that a prosthesis limits you, we will look together at alternative solutions or adjustments.

We at Amputee Care Center (by Spronken Orthopaedics) have more than 60 years of experience and have a very large range of different prosthetic parts. We are brand-independent. This means we can offer a world range of parts. Moreover, in our innovative lab, we can fully customise every prosthesis. We are therefore confident that together we will eventually find the best option for you!

If you are a doctor, physiotherapist, occupational therapist or other healthcare provider, you can refer your patients to the Amputee Care Center (ACC). At the Amputee Care Center, you can have different types of prostheses made and tested. These include leg prostheses, arm prostheses, sports prostheses, children's prostheses, foot prostheses, hand prostheses, finger prostheses and toe prostheses. 

In our gait lab and measurement laboratory, patients can test various prosthesis types, including:

• Lower leg prostheses: for patients with below-knee amputation.
• Upper leg prostheses: for amputations above the knee.
• Arm prostheses: for both forearm and upper arm amputations.

During these test sessions, we evaluate the functionality, fit and comfort of the prosthesis. Our digital gait lab with biofeedback is equipped with advanced technologies, such as 3D motion analysis and pressure measurement systems. This is to provide a detailed picture of the gait pattern and the interaction between the prosthesis and the body. This objective data helps optimise prosthesis fitting and improve the patient's mobility and quality of life. 

At Amputee Care Center, you can have a fitting prosthesis made with test tube. You can also test components such as certain prosthetic feet and prosthetic knees. This way, you can experience whether the prosthesis suits your daily needs or whether you encounter limitations and still need a different type of socket or prosthetic part. We encourage you to test the prosthesis in situations you encounter every day. Think of walking outside, climbing stairs and taking hills in the case of a leg prosthesis or holding a cup and cutting a sandwich in the case of arm prostheses.

It is often possible to test the prosthesis at home for a short period of time. This allows you to see how the prosthesis functions in your actual daily life and whether it meets your needs and requirements. 

You do not have to worry if a prosthesis is not comfortable. We can make adjustments to the prosthesis during testing. We can also try another option to optimise the fit. Sometimes several appointments are needed to make the fit and functionalities optimal for you. 

Yes, you often get a temporary or trial prosthesis first to get used to it and to determine what adjustments are needed before we make a final prosthesis. This prevents your final prosthesis from turning out to be not quite right after all. Using a trial prosthesis first prevents expensive adjustments to the final prosthesis.

The Amputee Care Center offers a wide range of liners, ostomy stockings and sleeves, each designed to meet different needs. It is common for prosthesis wearers to be introduced to different options during the fitting process to find the best fit and comfort. For specific options and appointments, it is best to make an appointment with an orthopaedic technologist or prosthetist at the Amputee Care Center in Genk, Belgium.  

Definitely, we offer you expert guidance and training at Amputee Care Center. For example, we will help you get used to your new prostheses and give you tips on how to use them optimally.

Do you still have doubts after choosing a particular prosthesis? Then we always advise you to contact us. We will then discuss your doubts together and look for a suitable solution before making a definitive prosthesis for you.
If you have doubts about the fit or the chosen prosthetic parts such as the foot, knee or hand, you can follow these steps:

1. Discuss your doubts with your prosthetist: Contact your orthopaedic technician or rehabilitation team. Clearly state what doesn't feel right or what could be better.
2. Compare different options: Ask if you can test a different prosthetic foot, knee, hand, socket or liner. Sometimes even a small adjustment can make a big difference.
3. Pay attention to your experience in daily life: Keep track of how your prosthesis feels during different activities. Pay attention to comfort, stability and energy consumption and note any complaints.
4. Ask for an extension of the test period: If you are still in doubt, you can discuss whether you can extend the test period. Extra guidance or physiotherapy can also help with habituation.
5. Consider a second opinion: Are you still in doubt? Then you can consult another prosthetist through a free second opinion consultation. There might be other solutions that suit you better.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident with your prosthesis. Don't hesitate to ask for adjustments - your prosthesis should fit you!

In the Benelux, the Amputee Care Center (ACC), part of Spronken Orthopaedics, is a leading prosthesis centre. At Amputee Care Center, you can test various prosthetic components before making a choice. We have a wide range of, for example, prosthetic feet, electronic knees and arm prostheses to try out. Moreover, we are completely brand-independent, which means we can help you find the best prosthesis for you objectively. With us, you will find the best and most innovative prostheses from different brands. We offer leg prosthesis users a free gait analysis, where we can fully map your gait and running dynamics to determine how to adapt your prosthesis to your body.