If you have had your foot, arm, or leg amputated, then you may want to invest in a prosthetic to replace the limb. As you start looking at your options, you may notice that prosthetics are expensive. The prosthetics range from $5,000 to $50,000. You may be wondering what exactly makes these limbs so pricey. Keep reading to learn about a few factors that contribute to the high costs:

They Are Custom-Made For You 

You cannot simply shop for a prosthetic and pick one off the shelf at your local store. Prosthetics need to be made personally to ensure function, comfort, and appearance. The function is extremely important when it comes to a leg or foot prosthetic, because your gait, spinal position, and hip position can be altered if the prosthetic is not made correctly. 

The prosthetic making process begins with a mold of your stump. Several molds may be needed due to the way that the stump changes in relation to the healing process and the thinning of the muscles in the region. Also, measurements must be taken of the matching and existing leg, foot, arm, hand or another part. You may also need to try on different prosthetics to make sure the length, height, or size is correct before the prosthetic is made. 

The prosthetic will be made, and you will then go through several fittings. Adjustments are completed based on the fittings.

The entire process is completed with the assistance of a prosthetist. Time and resources are invested by the professional and also outside laboratories, and these things do have various costs associated with them.

Prosthetics Are Made As Lightweight As Possible

If you have picked up a prosthetic, then you may have been surprised at how lightweight the artificial limb is. The low weight of the limb is essential when it comes to function and comfort. Since muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other tissues will not be attached to the limb, the extra weight can place a great deal of stress on your body. Minimizing this stress means using a wide variety of lightweight materials. 

The vast majority of the prosthetic is made from plastic, and while the material itself is not expensive, molds must be formed to create your prosthetic. The plastic, nylon, or polypropylene is then poured into the mold and hardened, and the various pieces are then carefully and expertly secured together. 

Also, most prosthetics do contain metals. Titanium is the lightweight and strong metal that is most often used now. This metal is quite pricey.

While a prosthetic may be expensive, it can completely restore function and mobility, so it is well worth the cost for most individuals. Contact a company like Northern Care Inc Prosthetics & Orthotics for more information and assistance.