The benefits of prosthetic trials

For people who have undergone upper or lower limb amputations, regaining mobility and functionality is a significant step toward reclaiming independence and quality of life. One of the most impactful stages in this journey is becoming a prosthetic user. What many prosthetic users don’t realise, is that they have the option to participate in prosthetic trials. These trials offer a safe, guided opportunity to explore prosthetic options and help to ensure that the final device is tailored to meet the user’s physical, psychological, and lifestyle needs. It can also empower prosthetic users to make educated and informed decisions. After all, no one buys a car without test driving it first!

Understanding prosthetic trials.

Trials are available for both upper and lower limb prosthetics and may include several types of prostheses to find the best match for you. A prosthetic trial is a temporary, testing phase where you can be fitted with different prosthetic componentry like feet, knees and arms, to assess functionality and suitability. The purpose of the trial is that you experience the device and ‘feel’ how it works and find out if it is ‘fit for purpose.’

Ask your prosthetist to help you to think about what you should consider during the trial. Write a list if you need to, that way you can check things off during the trial.

Key benefits of prosthetic trials.

Personalised fit and comfort.

We know that every amputation is different, just like every amputee is individual. Factors such as residual limb length, skin condition, muscle strength, and daily activity level can greatly influence the performance of a prosthesis.

Improved functionality and mobility.

Trials give amputees a chance to test various features—like grip patterns in upper limb devices or microprocessor knees in lower limb prostheses—before committing. It allows you and your team to:

Assess gait and balance
Test your skills and range of motion

Trials can help you to make sure that the device you chose is ‘fit for purpose’ and also helps you to achieve your goals.

Cost-effectiveness and informed decision-making.

Prosthetic devices represent a significant financial investment. Let’s face it, they are expensive! A trial reduces the risk of selecting a prosthesis which doesn’t meet your needs and ends up gathering dust in a wardrobe.

Enhanced long-term outcomes.

Amputees who make the most out of prosthetic trials are more likely to experience successful long-term use. Benefits include:

Reduced risk of other issues like, back or hip pain; neck or shoulder pain
Greater participation in work, recreational activities, and social/community life

This leads to improved health outcomes and a more fulfilled life.

Who should consider a prosthetic trial?

Prosthetic trials are beneficial for:

First-time amputees learning to use a prosthesis
Individuals who are uncomfortable or not happy with their current device
People exploring new technologies or upgrading their prosthetic system

Trying out prosthetics can help people take control of their own movement and comfort. It allows them to find what works best for them and feel more comfortable using the device. As prosthetic technology improves, these trials are very important for giving people the best possible care and improving their lives in the long run.

Who’s eligible to do prosthetic trial?

Everyone!

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeing your usual prosthetist or how long you’ve been a prosthetic user. If there’s something that you’d like to try, tell your clinician that you’d like to undertake a trial of that prosthetic device. You can see how the device performs at home or work, doing your everyday tasks, which may be very different to how it feels and performs in a clinical setting.

There aren’t too many things out there that we can try before we buy, so take advantage of this often unknown benefit!

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