.svg)
.svg)
For most amputees, it’s important to understand that they will have to budget and plan expenses related to prosthetic devices for the rest of their lives. The cost of a prosthetic leg varies, with prosthetic legs ranging between $3,000 to more than $120,000 for advanced control.
If you need lower limb prosthetics in Albuquerque & Las Cruces, PrimeCare can help - we recommend speaking to one of our specialists. In the meantime, here’s a basic idea of leg prosthesis prices.
Types of Prosthetic Legs
What factors influence the cost of permanent prosthetic limbs? The type of prosthetic chosen, the features of the carbon foot, and the adjustable carbon socket are factors, as well as the brand.
Below the Knee Prosthetic Leg Cost
Transtibial prosthetics are tailored for individuals who have undergone amputations below the knee. These types of prosthetic devices generally enable a faster return to mobility, primarily because the knee joint is still intact. The cost of a prosthetic leg below the knee varies from $3,000 to $24,000, depending on the brand, the type of carbon foot, and the features of the silicone liner chosen.
Prosthetic Leg Above Knee Cost
Transfemoral prosthetics, designed for above-the-knee amputees, replace the leg above the knee and incorporate an additional knee joint. This inclusion often means higher energy expenditure for walking. The cost for above-the-knee prosthetics ranges from $5,000 to $70,000, varying based on factors like brand, the type of joint used, and the choice of carbon foot.
Varieties of Prosthetic Leg Joints
Prosthetics vary primarily in their foot/ankle and knee joints.
Foot/Ankle Joints
Simpler models have a stationary foot/ankle, while others offer flexibility for smoother walking, often using materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. More advanced models feature multi-axial movement, mimicking natural ankle motion and adjusting to uneven terrain. Microprocessor foot and ankle systems, suitable for low to moderately active amputees, provide greater clearance and automatic adjustments.
Knee Joints
These range from simple manual lock mechanisms to more complex weight-activated locks that facilitate natural walking patterns. Advanced knees controlled by microprocessor units, pneumatic or hydraulic knees, allow for dynamic movement, adjusting to varying walking speeds. Hydraulic knees, as part of the more advanced knees, are ideal for active individuals needing to navigate stairs, uneven terrains, or longer distances.
What Is the Average Cost of a Prosthetic Leg in Las Cruces?
It is only possible to estimate the price of your complete prosthetic leg once your prosthetist has listed the recommended components. Below is a rough guideline:
For Patients with Health Insurance
Are prosthetics covered by insurance? Patients with health insurance will usually have out-of-pocket costs comprising copays for doctor visits and coinsurance ranging from 10% to 50%. Most prosthetic legs are insured.
However, the exact leg that’s covered will be contingent on the individual patient's amputation level, condition, and needs. The basic prosthetic leg price may be covered for homebound people who need to move around the house.
For Patients without Health Insurance
The cost of prosthetic legs can vary significantly depending on the type and extent of the amputation. For those without health insurance, a basic prosthetic leg can cost less than $10,000, while a more advanced, computerized prosthetic leg controlled by muscle movements can cost up to $70,000 or more.
Various non-profits provide financial aid or free prosthetic limbs for patients in need. The Amputee Coalition offers a list of financial resources and non-profits to minimize the burden of prosthetic leg prices.
What Should Be Included in Prosthetic Leg Price?
Included in the cost of prosthetics are the following:
- After amputation surgery, the patient visits a prosthetist, an expert in providing prostheses, a few weeks or months later. The prosthetist takes measurements of the patient and forms a cast of the stump to make a temporary prosthesis, which will be used for at least a year while the stump heals.
- After the residual limb has stabilized, the patient will return to the prosthetist to discuss the different kinds of permanent prosthetics. The professional will make another cast of the stump, and then the permanent prosthetic leg will be manufactured.
- The patient will return for a final fitting after undergoing tests with the prosthetic leg in the prosthetist's office and during their daily activities.
What Are the Extra Artificial Leg Costs?
Patients may need physical and occupational therapy to learn how to do daily tasks at home or work:
- Physical therapy usually costs between $50 and $350 per session.
- Occupational therapy can range from $50 to $400 per session.
The research, published in the November 2020 issue of the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, uncovered a significant finding: a shorter time frame (0-3 months) for receiving a prosthesis not only led to improved overall rehabilitation outcomes but also correlated with reduced healthcare costs.
Conclusion: Get Expert Pricing
Now that you know how much a prosthetic leg typically costs, you may wish to explore your options. At PrimeCare Orthotics & Prosthetics, we understand that everyone's prosthetic needs are unique.
Therefore, our team will work with you to determine what your insurance covers and create a solution tailored to your coverage and individual requirements. Please contact us for more information on our prosthetic leg range and insurance options.
.webp)
