Prosthetics

Beeler Prosthetics and Orthotics are 100% custom fabricated and begin with a scan or casting of your residual limb. We understand that every patient is unique!

In most cases, a silicone or gel liner is rolled onto the residual limb. For those residual limbs with bony prominences, neuromas, etc., a custom liner will be designed.

A prosthetic sock can be layered on top of the liner and act as a wick between the liner and the socket. Socks also accommodate for volume changes within the residual limb.

​​Lastly, the outer socket (with the knee and foot attached) is placed over the inner components. This provides the intimate fit that results in the feeling that the prosthesis is a part of you.

Types of Prosthetics

Lower Extremity, Above Knee

Our custom-designed above knee prosthetics provide amputees a transfemoral prosthesis that fits intimately and provides increased control and security. Above knee prosthetics include an articulated knee joint for realistic movement tailored to your activity level. Comfortable trim lines allow for a larger range of motion.

​Lower Extremity, Below Knee

Below knee prosthetics are designed for the most natural ambulation possible and include synthetic foot and ankle components.

Upper Extremity, Prosthetic Arm

A prosthetic upper limb refers to an artificially made device that serves as a substitute for a partially or entirely lost hand or arm due to an accident, injury, illness, or congenital defect. They come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. A prosthetic hand or arm typically comprises shafts, sockets, and components to imitate the attachment of the limb to a joint or ball and socket. It may be attached to the body with the use of cables.

Beeler Prosthetics serve cosmetic and functional needs. A cosmetic prosthesis is usually designed for the sole purpose of making the limb look natural and provides little or no functionality. Functional prosthetics help amputees perform challenging tasks following the loss of a limb, though appearance is a second priority.

---

What Are the Options Available for a Prosthetic?

When deciding which option is most appropriate, our experts will consider several factors including your level of limb loss, the purpose of using a prosthesis, and your lifestyle.

Passive Prosthesis

In general, a passive prosthesis is designed to resemble an amputated limb. While it isn’t able to move actively, this lightweight prosthesis may improve function. It may be covered with a basic production glove or custom-painted, high-definition silicone that looks like a person’s skin. In an upper extremity prosthesis, a passive prosthesis may be combined with multi-positional joints to give its user the ability to position the finger joints, wrist, elbow, or shoulder for improved function.

Body-Powered Prosthesis

A body-powered prosthetic operates with the use of a system of harnesses, cables, and sometimes manual control. When you move your chest, shoulder, upper arm, or another part of your upper body, the movement will be captured and used to control the prosthetic limb. As you become more familiar with the different levels of tension on the cable, you’ll likely achieve an improved sense of the limb’s position and degree of opening. A body-powered prosthesis is the preferred option for people who perform manual labor with an eye to function and durability.

Electrically Powered Prosthesis

In an electrically powered prosthesis, there are usually motors and batteries that provide power to facilitate movement. The electric components found in such a device may vary depending on the level of limb loss it’s intended to compensate for. An electrically powered prosthetic limb may use sensors or other inputs that can detect muscle movements in the upper body or residual limb. Sensors signal motors to make the desired movements. In many cases, an electrically powered prosthetic comes with a cosmetic glove or foam cover.

Activity-Specific Prosthesis

Hybrid Prosthesis

A hybrid prosthesis is a cross between a body-powered prosthesis and an electrically powered prosthesis. Such a device may provide a better functional outcome in certain situations. Usually, a hybrid prosthetic limb is designed for people with a high level of limb loss, which requires multiple movable components. It may have an extended area of function that broadens its use on the job or in other activities.