Comprehensive step-by-step training of patients with hip stump walking on a prosthesis

Introduction. After the prosthetic device has been manufactured, the most important task for doctors who rehabilitate a patient with a hip stump is to restore its lost biomechanical function by teaching the patient to walk on the prosthesis. From a biomechanical perspective, walking with a prosthesis is significantly more complex and energy-consuming than walking with crutches. Therefore, the process of teaching patients with a hip stump to walk using a prosthesis is complex, highly demanding, and requires the collaboration of multiple specialists. The aim of this clinical lecture is to familiarize a wide range of doctors from various specialties involved in the rehabilitation of the injured person with modern approaches to the step-by-step training of patients with a hip stump to walk using a prosthesis. Main part. In the main part of this clinical lecture, the stages of teaching patients with a hip stump to walk using a prosthesis are analyzed in detail. Significant attention is given to presenting the various techniques used in these stages. The role of each specialist in the interdisciplinary team involved in teaching patients with a hip stump to walk using a prosthesis is outlined. Conclusion. It is noted that if a patient does not start walking on a prosthesis as soon as possible after hip stump formation, a flexion-adduction contracture of the hip joint on the affected limb will quickly form. This will prevent the patient from walking even with the most advanced prosthesis and is extremely challenging to correct. As a result, the patient may rely on crutches or a wheelchair for the rest of their life, often experiencing significant psychological challenges. In the case of residual limb diseases that prevent the patient from walking on a prosthesis, it is necessary to refer the patient to the appropriate specialists in a timely manner. Otherwise, if the patient stops using the prosthesis, a flexion-adduction contracture of the hip joint on the affected limb-which is difficult to treat-will quickly develop, and the patient may never regain the ability to walk with a prosthesis.