Moving like the speed of light we search for the answer to our question. We usually ask the question to our doctor first, then possibly a near by nurse or physical therapist. The occupational therapist could be a nice target for the question as well, as we start the recovery process.

Everyone has a different initial internal experience when receiving an amputation. I mean that some of us get a fair warning of sorts as to what rough treatment needs to occur to save our life. Some simply wake up to find they have lost a limb, possibly even more than one. We all ask the same question but in a different state of mind. So what is the question? “How will I be able to replace the limb-limbs that I’ve just lost?” Getting the best answer to this question I feel, will ultimately come from a “Prosthetist”, with all do respect to the professionals listed above.

We need a new limb, and it needs to replace the one lost as perfectly as possible. This becomes as important to us as breathing is! We need to feel whole again, absolutely seeing a future with as little change in our cosmetic appearance and life style as is humanly possible. The prosthetist now becomes a very central focus of our attention in our life, as we struggle to get our lives back to normalcy.

A prosthetist is someone that has chosen to be part of a wonderful ever evolving profession; the field of upper and lower limb prosthetics!

The prosthetic profession is comprised of four main organizations, and here they are listed below for your review.

This first organization is designed to have a pure focus on education, and its name is:

The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists

Here is an internet link to deeper information as to this organizations true purpose-

http://www.oandp.org/about/history/default.asp

This second organization has a focus on testing for certification of not only prosthetists but also accrediting prosthetic facilities as well:

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics

Here is an internet link to deeper information as to this organizations true purpose-

http://www.abcop.org/about/Pages/Mission.aspx

This third one concentrates only on our very important educational standards:

The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education

Here is an internet link to deeper information as to this organizations true purpose-

http://www.ncope.org/about/

The forth organization I am listing for your review has a focal point exclusively on business issues that are very important and directly impact the stability of the prosthetic profession in the short term and long term as well:

The American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association

Here is an internet link to deeper information as to this organizations true purpose-

http://www.aopanet.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=52&Itemid=330

These trained professionals, prosthetists, need to gain our trust quickly. We need to feel totally comfortable with them as we give them the responsibility of caring for us, attending to all our most personal prosthetic needs. They need to educate us quickly as to the realities of our most personal situation. We do need to trust them and they need to know that they are most defiantly deserving of our trust. This obviously makes for the best kind of relationship you can have, even with anyone!

With amazing determination from a highly educated and experienced prosthetist, your highest quality of prosthetic care is truly available. These organizations listed above truly empower the prosthetists that they produce and watch over.

In my humble experience, from an amputees point of view and as a prosthetist for approximate 40 years now, I have seen allot of changes in this profession to be sure. Some very positive and some not so positive, but one thing that hasn’t changed, is the need the amputee has, to feel a great confidence within that they are always receiving what they are genuinely entitled to: empathetic, professional and most competent prosthetic care!

Have you been happy with your prosthetic care?
I care, so if you dare, please share!!!