CAN YOU DRIVE WITH A PROSTHETIC LEG OR FOOT?

We receive from new patients is “can I drive with my new prosthetic device?” After all, maintaining your independence as much as possible is one of the primary psychological motivators for the vast majority of amputees.

In truth, there is not an exact answer to this question, because different individuals will have different prosthetic devices, which in turn may or may not significantly impact their ability to operate a vehicle the same way as they used to.

In addition to this, certain states may require that amputees undergo an assessment to evaluate their driving abilities, and whether or not the amputee needs to make any special modifications to his or her vehicle before operating.

Necessary vehicle modification depending on your specific situation

While no two situations are exactly the same, there are three common scenarios:

First and foremost, some individuals can drive normally with their leg or foot prosthetic device, and thus require no special vehicle modifications. Typically, these are individuals with lower leg prosthetic devices that still maintain significant control of their leg.

Secondly, a person may need to make slight modifications if they have experienced a right leg amputation. Normal modifications in this situation may be one (or more) of the following:

A left foot gas pedal may be required so the driver can have adequate control of the vehicle.

The driver must have an automatic transmission as opposed to a manual transmission.

A power brake must be applied.

Thirdly, a double amputee will likely require more significant modifications, such as one or more of the following:

Hand controls for the break and gas pedals

An emergency break extension for easier use

An automatic transmission as opposed to a manual transmission

The Best Prosthetic Foot for You

Just as there is no single tool perfectly suited for every job, there is no single foot that is perfect for every amputee. Knowing the available options will enable you to discuss this issue clearly with your prosthetist. Evaluate the pros and cons of different feet so you can make the best choice for your individual aspirations and abilities. In comparing the potential benefits of microprocessor-controlled systems over other systems, physicians and prosthetists should focus on the functional aspects of the prosthetic foot and its level of appropriateness, given the user’s individualized needs and goals.

Shijiazhuang Perfect Prosthetic Manufacture Co., Ltd. was found in 2009. we are the parter of china association of rehabilitation on December 11th, 2014, now become the leading integrated company. CPF products the prosthetic lower, single axis foot, orthotic parts and some adapters, to-gether with research and development.

We persevere and work with Europe,southeast Asia and south America more than 50 countries, research nearly 100 products. It has great praise with the high quality and preferential price in the domestic and foreign.

We have ourself casting factory, CNC Machine factory, Assemble workshop and Technology Research and Development Center. all of the products Design and made by ourself, we can control the cost price very well! So we can supply you the best quality, best price and best after-sell service.

Our Principle is: Do our best to give you all best!

Welcome warmly all of the friends from all of the world visit my company, to establish a good and long term cooperation.  Please contact us!