Prosthesis: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Prosthesis?
A prosthetist, a specialist in prosthetic limbs, advises you about the type and function of artificial limbs. A doctor such as a physiatrist, who treats problems with movement and function, or a surgeon often guides your care. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A prosthesis is a device designed to replace a missing part of the body or to make a part of the body work better. Missing or diseased eyes, arms, hands, legs, or joints are commonly replaced by prosthetic devices.
If you are missing an arm or leg, an artificial limb can sometimes replace it. Here, a prosthesis means an artificial arm or leg. It can help you do daily activities such as walking, eating, or dressing. Some artificial limbs let you function nearly as well as before.
Why a doctor might recommend it
People can lose all or part of an arm or leg for many reasons.
Common reasons include the following.
- Circulation problems from diabetes, which may lead to an amputation.
- Injuries, such as from traffic accidents and military combat.
- Cancer.
- Birth defects.
An amputation is the surgical removal of part of the body, such as an arm or leg.
How to prepare
If a prosthetic limb is suitable for you, you begin activities in the hospital to prepare for the prosthesis.
The type of limb that is recommended for you depends on the following.
- The type of amputation you had.
- The amount of muscle strength in the remaining section of the limb.
- Your general health.
- The tasks the limb will be expected to perform.
- Whether you want the limb to look as real as possible or care more about function.
Before a limb is fitted, the skin on the remaining part of your limb may be made less sensitive. This makes the prosthesis more comfortable to wear.
What happens during it
If you have a prosthetic limb fitted, your physical therapist will teach you how to use it. For example, you may learn how to walk on a prosthetic leg or grip with a prosthetic hand.
Recovery
Rehabilitation can be a long, difficult and frustrating process, but it is important to keep going. After rehabilitation, you may be able to return to work and other activities.
These daily care steps help protect the skin on your remaining limb.
- Gently wash the skin at least once a day with mild unscented soap and warm water, and dry it carefully.
- If you have a prosthetic limb, clean the socket regularly with soap and warm water.
- Some people find that wearing socks over the remaining limb helps absorb sweat and reduces skin irritation.
- Change the socks every day.
Check your remaining limb carefully every day for signs of infection.
Signs of infection include the following.
- Warm, red and tender skin.
- Fluid or pus draining from the skin.
- Increasing swelling.
Contact your care team for advice if you think you may be developing a skin infection.
Risks and side effects
Pain in the remaining part of the limb can have many causes, including rubbing or sores where it touches a prosthetic limb. Phantom limb sensations seem to come from the amputated limb, and they can occasionally be painful. This pain will usually improve over time, but treatments are available. Adjusting the way your prosthesis fits can make it more comfortable.
Who performs it
A prosthetist is a specialist in prosthetic limbs.
Common questions
Can everyone who has an amputation use a prosthetic limb?
No, prosthetic limbs are not suitable for everyone who has had an amputation. Adjusting to life with a prosthetic limb takes a lot of energy. You have to make up for the loss of muscle and bone in the amputated limb. Frail people, or people with a serious health condition, may not be suitable for one.
What is a cosmetic limb?
A cosmetic limb is a limb that looks like a real limb, but it cannot be used like a prosthetic limb. It may be recommended if you would find it difficult to withstand the strain of using a prosthetic limb.
Is phantom limb pain imaginary?
No, phantom limb pain is real. The word phantom does not mean the sensations are imaginary.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. For a prosthesis, a prosthetist can advise you about the devices available.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
