In some cases of severe injury or illness, it may be necessary for doctors to make the decision to amputate a patient's leg below the knee. While losing a leg can be an emotional and stressful process, most people are able to make a full recovery. After recovering from surgery, many people who have undergone a leg amputation make the decision to get a prosthetic leg. A quality prosthetic leg can help a patient regain their ability to move freely. However, you can't expect to put on a prosthetic leg and immediately walk or run — there is a learning curve. Continue reading to learn more about the process of learning how to walk with your new prosthetic leg.

Ensure You Have the Right Fit

It will be very difficult to master walking on a prosthetic leg if you do not have the right fit. When you first begin physical therapy, you will be fitted for a temporary prosthetic leg which you will use until the swelling of the residual limb subsides completely. After that, you will be fitted for a permanent, custom-made prosthetic leg. It is normal for your new prosthetic to feel strange for the first few days. However, if you experience extreme discomfort or pain when wearing your new prosthetic, speak to your medical team so adjustments can be made.

Be Prepared for Physical Therapy

In order to learn how to walk with a prosthetic leg, you will need to work with a physical therapist. Your physical therapist will help you master being able to smoothly transfer your weight from one side or the other so you can have a natural stride when you walk with your prosthetic. You will most likely spend a good amount of time taking steps while holding on to the parallel bars for support and to prevent falls. As you gain strength and confidence, you will be able to begin taking steps with needing the extra support.

Take Your Time

It is natural to want to regain your full ability to walk after having a leg amputation and getting a prosthetic. But, it is essential to take your time and not push yourself too hard. Your doctor and therapist will most likely recommend using a walking aid for a while — do not walk without your walking aid until you are cleared to do so. Using the slow and steady method of learning how to walk with a prosthetic will provide the best results and help you avoid injuries. 

To learn more, contact a local prosthetics professional.