After a prosthetic is fitted, patients require physical therapy to learn to use the new device. This may begin with exercises to increase strength. Patients may also walk between parallel bars to develop balance using the new leg. This advances to walking with assistive devices, such as a walker, crutches or a cane.

Using a prosthetic requires patients to take care of their residual limb and their overall health. The patient will need to continue to clean the limb daily and inspect it for signs of infection and disease. Keeping the sock or liner clean is also important to help prevent infection.

In addition, many patients injure their remaining foot following the amputation of the other. For people with diabetes, even a seemingly minor condition such as a scrape or bunion can lead to a foot ulcer or other serious foot problem. Without proper medical attention, this can lead to the loss of the remaining limb. Regular skin care, foot care and complete foot examinations are essential. Regular visits to a podiatrist may also be of help.

The prosthetist is likely to recommend how to get the longest functional life out of the prosthetic. This includes conditions to avoid, such as submerging some types of artificial limbs. In addition, prosthetics requires maintenance to keep them functioning. Normal wear and tear can, over time, strain the device and may lead to failure of the prosthetic limb and possible injury of the patient. The prosthetist may recommend inspections and preventive maintenance three to four times a year. During maintenance periods, patients may use the preparatory limb they were first given to maintain their mobility.

Prosthetic limbs last for only a few years before they need to be replaced. Some prosthetists estimate that they have a two- to three-year lifespan. Reasons to replace a device may include a patient’s weight gain or change in activity level, or because the prosthetic needs a new component, has lost functionality or is no longer safe.

Patients may also benefit from joining a support group for amputees or prosthetics users. These groups provide emotional support to patients and a means of sharing knowledge of live as a prosthetic user.