Beginning Your Journey With Amputation: A Guide for Parents

Hearing that your child needs an amputation can feel overwhelming. This guide was created with families in mind, to help you navigate your child’s amputation with greater confidence and understanding. It explains:

  • Why an amputation may be necessary
  • What to expect about your child’s amputation journey
  • How early rehabilitation supports healing and growth

Above all, this is a reminder that amputation is only one part of your child’s journey – not the end of their story. With time, care, and the support of family and care teams, your child will go on to live an active, confident and independent life.

Understanding Amputation: Why It Happens and What It Means

Amputation refers to the surgical removal of all or part of a limb (i.e. an arm or leg). Doctors may recommend an amputation when it is the safest or most effective way to treat a medical condition, injury, or infection. Some children may also be born with a limb difference or missing bones that make a limb hard to use. The goal is to support the child’s overall health, function, mobility, and development.

What makes amputation in a child different from amputation in an adult

Children are not just small adults. Their bones, muscles, and joints are still growing, so doctors have to think ahead. Because the reason for needing an amputation as a child may be unique, due to an illness or congenital limb difference, doctors sometimes use different amputation surgeries and strategies in children that allow for better healing and prosthesis fit for a growing child. They are adept at planning ahead for growth and a child’s changing needs.

Preparing for Your Child’s Amputation Surgery

In some cases, you may not be able to prepare for your child’s amputation surgery. However, in many cases the decision to pursue amputation will come after many visits with your trusted medical team. During your time working with the medical team, the surgeon will get to know your child and family, understand your goals, and discuss all available treatment options and anticipated outcomes (both surgical and non-surgical). During these visits, you may also meet other team members who will help with your child’s rehabilitation, such as:

  • Rehabilitation Physician, or PM&R doctor, who focuses on rehabilitative needs, including therapies, equipment, and functional rehabilitation
  • Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists who help support your child’s rehabilitation to recover mobility, function, independence, and strength
  • A Prosthetist, who will help with your child’s prosthetic care, getting to know your child’s functional and mobility goals and designing and upkeeping the prosthesis as your child grows
  • Child life specialists, social workers, or psychologists who can help support your child and family’s emotional well-being on this journey.

Be sure to take the time to ask your doctor questions, and bring up any concerns you have about your child’s rehabilitation after amputation. If you are unable to meet with some of the above providers during your doctor’s visits, ask your physician what resources they have, or if they work closely with a care team to be able to speak to a prosthetist, PMR doctor, and therapists.

Your doctor should be able to provide specific details about your child’s surgery and recovery.

Please see this article for more information on questions to ask your child’s providers.

Helping your child get ready: talking about surgery in a kid-friendly way

Children often cope better when they know what to expect. Your words don’t have to be perfect – simple and honest is best.

For younger children, using dolls, stuffed animals, or simple drawings to show or demonstrate what is happening can help your child cope and prepare. A child life specialist or social worker with your medical team may be able to help provide age-appropriate support to help your child best prepare emotionally for this big change.  

For school-age children and teens, offering a little more detail can be helpful. Encourage them to ask questions and use clear, direct words like “amputation” and “surgery”. It can also be reassuring to talk about activities they can return to doing once they’ve healed, what the healing process can look like, and introduce them to different members of the team so they can start to build relationships with their care team.

If your hospital has child life specialists, consider asking them to meet with your child. They often have books, pictures, dolls, and activities to help explain medical care in a way children can better understand to better prepare your child emotionally for medical procedures.

What to expect right after surgery

Your physician should discuss all of the details of your child’s surgery and recovery. It’s important to ask the doctors any questions you may have about the process, including:

  • What the hospital stay may look like before and after surgery
  • Details of the surgery procedure, how long it will take, and any risks that may be involved
  • What the physical or occupational therapy will look like in the hospital after the surgery
  • If your child will go home with a wheelchair, walker, or crutches, and how they will be trained on those support tools
  • What home accommodations your child may need after the amputation (a ramp for a wheelchair, additional bars or supports in the bathroom, extra supervision on stairs, etc.)
  • What kind of bandaging, covers/shrinkers, casts, or protectors your child will be wearing after surgery
  • When to follow-up with your doctor and what the post-operative plan may look like

While in the hospital, your child may see a physical or occupational therapy team to make sure they are safe and comfortable with mobility given their new amputation. This may include learning to use a walker, crutches, or wheelchair to safely move after their surgery. Preventing falls after surgery is very important to ensure your child’s wound heals properly without further injury.

Your child may go home with special bandaging, covers/shrinkers, or protectors on their limb. Be sure the medical team provides you with instructions on when to wear these covers, how often they should be changed, and gives you the opportunity to practice care before you go home from the hospital.

The medical team will make sure your family is comfortable with all of your child’s surgery after-care and the follow-up plan.

Some pain after surgery is normal, but it should be controlled. Call your child’s care team or seek medical care right away if you notice:

  • Fever or chills
  • Increasing redness around the incision
  • Abnormal or excessive heat coming from the limb
  • A bad smell or yellow/green drainage from the wound
  • Very sharp pains

Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it is always okay to call and ask for help.

Early Recovery and Rehabilitation: Helping Your Child Heal and Move Again

Once you go home, the focus will be on healing and settling back into daily life. The first few weeks are usually centered on caring for the incision, gentle movement, and slowly rebuilding strength. Be sure to follow the instructions from your doctor on any movement, incision care, and therapies.

Therapy often starts in the hospital and continues after discharge, either through outpatient visits or in your home. Progress may happen in small but important steps – it is important to follow the instructions of your therapist so your child can progress safely through their rehabilitation to prevent injury and continue their safe healing journey.

Caring for the residual limb at home

The part of the arm or leg that remains after surgery is often called the residual limb. Taking good care of this area each day helps lower the risk of infection and skin problems. Here are some general tips for residual limb care, however always follow your surgeon’s instructions if they differ:

  • Keep the skin clean and dry
  • Ask your doctor and therapist about scar mobilization to prevent adherent scars
  • Check the skin every day for redness, blisters, or spots that look irritated
  • Encourage your child to help check their limb so they can begin building healthy habits

Understanding phantom limb sensations and pain in children

Some children may notice sensations that feel like they are coming from the part of the arm or leg that is missing. This is called phantom limb sensation. Children may describe feelings such as tingling, warmth, itching, cramping, or movement in a hand or foot that is no longer there. This occurs less in children with amputations, but it can still happen.

Sometimes these sensations are painful. This is known as phantom limb pain. It is very real and can be upsetting, especially if a child does not understand why it is happening. Depending on your child’s phantom limb sensation or pain, your care team may suggest interventions such as gentle massage, desensitization therapies, mirror therapy, or other treatments.

Keeping a simple record of when phantom pain happens and what helps can be very useful. Sharing this information with your child’s care team allows them to better support your child.

Physical and occupational therapy: building strength, balance, and confidence

Physical and occupational therapy are often where many children begin to build strength, confidence, and independence. This can begin even before your child receives a prosthesis.

In physical therapy (PT), your child may:

  • Do gentle stretches to help protect joints
  • Build strength in their core and limbs
  • Work on balance
  • Learn to move using tools like a walker, crutches, wheelchair, or a prosthesis

In occupational therapy (OT), your child may:

  • Practice daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom in new ways
  • Learn how to use adaptive tools for tasks like writing or eating
  • Work on play skills and school-related activities

Many parents find it helpful to watch therapy sessions. This can make it easier to support exercises at home. Rather than trying to remember everything, ask the therapists to show you two or three key activities to practice between visits or provide a print out of exercises you can do at home. Your therapy team will work closely with your prosthetist team to ensure your child is successful with their rehabilitation and recovery goals.

Prosthesis Fitting

Once your child’s limb has healed and your physician has deemed it safe for them to wear a prosthesis, you will meet with a prosthetist team to begin the process of being measured for a prosthesis. This may take a number of visits, including evaluation appointments, casting sessions, and practice fittings before the prosthesis is ready to come home with your child. Your prosthetist will work with your family, the physician team, and the therapy team to ensure the prosthesis is appropriate for your child, and can help your child regain functional mobility and meet their goals. They may even join you at sessions of physical therapy to help adjust and optimize the prosthesis.

Your child’s prosthetic goals may change over time, especially as their limb changes and heals after surgery, and as they get stronger. Their activities and interests may change over time as they grow. A pediatric prosthetist will ensure that your child’s prosthesis can adapt and change to their growing body and changing needs. Your prosthetist will also ensure that the prosthesis is still fitting your child as they grow, and may replace parts or measure for a new prosthesis as your child grows and changes. It is important to regularly follow-up with your child’s prosthetist team so they can be successful and safe with their prosthesis.

Disclaimer:

OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. should be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice, including intended use, warnings, precautions, side effects and contraindications. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions.

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Choosing a Prosthetist for Your Child: Why Pediatric Training Matters

A prosthetist is a certified healthcare professional who designs and fits artificial limbs and devices for those with amputation or limb difference. Prosthetists collaborate with the medical team to create treatment plans, design devices, and care for those using a prosthesis to help patients achieve their functional and mobility goals. A prosthetist goes through 3-4 years of training after college to become a certified clinician.

This blog will walk you through a prosthetist’s role in your child’s care, why a pediatric-trained prosthetist matters, and how to choose the right provider for your child.

The Prosthetist’s Role

In simple terms, your prosthetist:

  • Gets to know you and your child
  • Learns about your child’s medical history, activities, and goals
  • Determines appropriate prosthetic device (prosthesis) design
  • Fits and adjusts the prosthesis to help your child achieve their goals
  • Maintains, repairs, and adjusts the prosthesis throughout your child’s growth

The prosthetist is not someone your child will see just once. Over many years, your child will need adjustments to their prosthesis, different componentry, and new devices as they grow, change, and explore new activities. A strong prosthetist-patient relationship is a long-term partnership. The prosthetist works with your child’s family, care team, and school to be successful with their prosthesis.

Pediatric-Trained Prosthetists

As your child grows and changes, so do their prosthetic needs. Socket fit can go from “perfect” to “too tight” in just a few weeks during a growth spurt. Alignment that once worked for a toddler’s short, quick steps may no longer work for a grade-schooler running around at recess. A teen who wants to sprint, dance, or play sports will need different features than a younger child who is learning to balance. Each stage brings new physical demands and new emotional needs.

A pediatric prosthetist has the tools, training, and mindset to keep up with this constant change as your child grows. Pediatric-trained prosthetists use their expertise to support health and independence through prosthetic care as your child grows. They will be able to connect you with resources, such as peer supports and other local medical providers, to make sure your child is successful with their prosthesis.

Pediatric Anatomy & Emotions

Pediatric-trained prosthetists are specifically aware of pediatric conditions and anatomy, and how these differ from adult presentations. They plan socket shapes and padding to protect sensitive areas, check alignment often to avoid strain on your child’s hips, knees, and back, and plan for anticipated growth in all parts of the prosthesis. An ill-fitting prosthesis can put stress on a joint, limit motion in a growing limb, and cause pain that your child may not know how to explain. Over time, this can affect posture, walking pattern, and even spine health.

Kids often play hard and forget to slow down. This can lead to common skin issues such as:

  • Redness that does not fade after the prosthesis comes off
  • Blisters where the socket rubs
  • Pressure points that turn into sore spots

A pediatric-trained prosthetist watches for these warning signs and educates families on what to watch for. They check your child’s skin during visits and choose breathable liners and materials that better handle sweat. During growth spurts, they may plan more frequent checkups since fit can quickly change. Most importantly, they teach families to be the best advocate for their child, knowing what to look out for, so families are empowered and knowledgeable about their child’s prosthesis, care, and follow-up.

 The emotional side of prosthetic care is just as important as the physical side. Kids with limb differences may feel different from their peers, shy about showing their device, and frustrated when something is hard. A pediatric-trained prosthetist understands these challenges and aims to make the prosthetic process fun by using kid-friendly language and inviting your child to make choices. The prosthetist can also help prepare your child for conversations with classmates about their prosthesis and will collaborate with your child’s school team so they can be successful and well-adapted in their school environment. When your child feels proud of their device, they are more likely to wear it, use it well, and join in activities.

Prosthetic Considerations for Each Stage of Childhood

Children use their bodies differently at every age. A toddler tumbles and crawls. A grade-schooler runs, jumps, and plays tag. A teen may be focused on sports, work, or hobbies.

A pediatric-trained prosthetist considers the needs of each age group:

  • Toddlers: Stability, simplicity, and a prosthesis that is easy to put on and take off. The focus is on safety and learning to crawl, stand, cruise, and walk for children with lower limb difference. Sitting balance, crawling, and basic fine motor skills like holding toys are the focus for children with upper limb differences.
  • School-age kids: Stronger materials that handle playgrounds, bikes, and gym class. A prosthesis for a school-aged child should focus on being strong, lightweight, and easy to put on and take off so the child can be independent with their prosthesis at this age.
  • Teens: More advanced feet, knees, or upper limb terminal devices for sports and specialized activities. Teens may want more autonomy in their style and identity, and incorporating these as a focus into the prosthetic treatment plan helps your child be successful with their prosthesis as they transition to early adulthood.

A child who loves soccer may need a foot that helps with quick starts and stops. A teen who plays violin may need an upper-limb device that holds the instrument in a specific way. A pediatric-trained prosthetist matches components to your child’s life rather than a standard activity level label.

Choosing A Pediatric-Trained Prosthetist

Knowing what qualities to look for in your prosthetist will help you be a strong advocate for your child. It is important to inquire about training, certifications, and true pediatric experience. After receiving a master’s degree, prosthetists complete residency and take exams to become board certified. Some prosthetists choose clinics that focus on kids or complete extra pediatric courses. When choosing a pediatric-trained prosthetist, examples of helpful questions include:

  • What ages do you work with most?
  • Do you have extra training in pediatrics?
  • Have you worked with children who have a limb like my child’s?

Your prosthetist should explain choices in plain language and ask what matters most to your family. You should never feel rushed, ignored, or talked down to. Keep in mind that pediatric prosthetic care is a long-term process, not a one-time event. It is important to ask about frequency of follow up appointments, what will happen when your child grows, and what to do if issues arise. Having confidence in your child’s prosthetist team will help facilitate open communication so your child can be successful with their prosthetic care.

With the right team around you, your child can move, play, and grow with confidence. A helpful next step is to write down your top questions, talk with your child’s doctor, and schedule a visit to meet a pediatric-trained prosthetist.

Disclaimer:

OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. should be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice, including intended use, warnings, precautions, side effects and contraindications. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions. 

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Matching Growth & Development Milestones to Prosthesis Design

A Parent’s Guide to Understanding How Prosthetic Needs Change as Children Grow

Children change rapidly as they grow, and when a child uses a prosthesis, those developmental shifts influence far more than just clothing size or shoe fit. Their limb length, strength, coordination, and daily activities evolve throughout childhood, which means their prosthetic needs evolve too. Understanding how prosthesis design adapts to each stage of growth can help parents feel more prepared and confident as their child progresses through important milestones.

Why Growth and Development Shape Prosthetic Design

Childhood growth is dynamic. Unlike adults, children frequently outgrow their sockets, develop new motor skills, explore new physical challenges, and shift their interests as they discover what they enjoy. A prosthesis that fits well and supports these changes can encourage healthy movement, confidence, and participation in daily life. As children grow, prosthetic design needs to adjust—sometimes subtly, sometimes significantly—to match their development and support their abilities.

Infants and Early Toddlers (0–2 Years)

During the earliest stage of life, children are learning how their bodies move and beginning to explore the world around them. Prostheses introduced at this age are focused on helping them become familiar with wearing a device while encouraging early, symmetrical movement, such as crawling, pulling up to stand, and cruising. Comfort and flexibility are the priorities, allowing children to progress through these motor milestones. Devices for this age are typically lightweight, more flexible, and simple so they don’t interfere with crawling, sitting, or early standing. The goal is gentle exposure that supports natural development, and helps the family and child learn the basics of using a prosthesis.

Toddlers (2–4 Years)

As toddlers grow, they become busy explorers who climb, run, and test the limits of their mobility. Their prosthesis must be durable enough to withstand daily bumps while still being light and comfortable enough to encourage steady walking. Because growth is rapid, families can expect more frequent adjustments or new sockets during this period. A well‑designed prosthesis during the toddler years supports balance, stability, and safe exploration, making it easier for children to participate in the kinds of active play that drive their development.

Preschool and Early School Age (4–7 Years)

Children at this age begin building more independence and developing stronger coordination. They are also becoming more aware of their bodies and how they compare to peers. Prosthetic design during this stage focuses on supporting more complex movements like running, jumping, and participating in early sports or recess activities. Many children also enjoy choosing colors or patterns for their device, which gives them a sense of ownership and pride. Prostheses may become more functional in this stage, with components designed to match their growing confidence and mobility.

Middle Childhood (7–12 Years)

Once children reach elementary school, their world expands. They may join sports teams, learn to bike confidently, and take on more physically demanding hobbies. Prosthetic design during this stage often becomes more activity‑focused. Components may be more advanced to support energetic, coordinated movement, and children may use sports or activity-specific devices depending on their interests. Regular check‑ins with a prosthetist become especially important because alignment and fit can shift rapidly as children enter their large growth spurts into adolescence.

Adolescence (12+ Years)

The teenage years bring rapid growth and emotional change. Growth spurts can dramatically alter socket fit in a short period, so more frequent prosthetic appointments are common. Teens may also have more specific preferences related to appearance, technology, or function. Prostheses at this age may incorporate more advanced mechanical or myoelectric components that support the complexity of teenage life, including sports, part‑time jobs, driving, preparing for advanced education, and increased independence. Comfort, performance, and independence become major priorities as teens learn to navigate their evolving bodies and take more ownership of their prosthetic care and independence.

How Often Prostheses Need to Be Updated

While every child’s growth pattern is unique, infants and toddlers often need new sockets every 8-12 months, younger school‑age children may need new devices annually, and older children and teens may go 12–18 months between major replacements. Even so, small adjustments—such as padding changes, alignment tweaks, or minor repairs—may be needed at any time as children grow and increase their activity levels. Even if adjustments are not needed, it’s important to follow-up with your prosthetist for routine maintenance and safety inspections.

Recognizing When Adjustments Are Needed

Parents often notice signs that a prosthesis is no longer fitting well before a child does. Redness that doesn’t fade quickly, new pain, changes in walking pattern or activity involvement, skin irritation, or sudden looseness or tightness are all cues that the device may need attention. Trusting your instincts and reaching out promptly to your prosthetic team helps keep your child comfortable and safe during periods of rapid growth.

Supporting Your Child Through These Changes

As prosthetic needs change, emotions and confidence levels can shift too. Encouraging open conversations about comfort, preferences, and frustrations helps children feel supported. Giving them a voice in choices—like design, color, or activity‑specific devices—can foster independence and self‑expression. Staying connected to your prosthetic team and regularly discussing your child’s goals ensures that each new device continues to support their physical and emotional development.

The Big Picture

Matching prosthetic design to growth and development is an ongoing partnership with your child, family, and their entire care team. Each stage of childhood brings new challenges and new strengths, and a well‑designed prosthesis can support every step, leap, and milestone along the way. With thoughtful adjustments and a collaborative care approach, children can move confidently through their world and into each new stage of life.

Disclaimer:

OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. should be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice, including intended use, warnings, precautions, side effects and contraindications. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions. 

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I’m Moving — What Do I Do About My Child’s Prosthetic Care?

A Simple, Supportive Guide for Families on the Move

Moving is a big transition for any family. When your child uses a prosthesis, it can feel even more stressful to figure out how to continue their care in a new place. The good news? With a little planning, your child’s prosthetic needs can stay on track wherever you go.

This guide gives you the key steps—clear, simple, and easy to follow.

1. Start With Your Current Care Team

Before you move, reach out to the prosthetist, surgeon, and therapists who already know your child.

Ask for:

  • A brief summary of your child’s current needs
  • Prosthetic records (measurements, design notes, alignment history)
  • Therapy notes and upcoming goals

Doing this early helps your new team hit the ground running.

Your current care team may also have recommendations for providers near your new home. The field of pediatric specialists that work with children with limb loss and limb difference is small.  Your current providers may have suggestions or a connection where you are moving, so don’t hesitate to ask!

2. Find a Pediatric‑Experienced Prosthetist

Not every clinic specializes in children. Look for a provider who understands growth‑related changes and pediatric activity needs.

Helpful questions when calling new clinics:

  • “How many pediatric patients do you treat?”
  • “How quickly can you see us after we move?”
  • “Are you willing to reach out to our old care team to help with my child’s care continuity?”
  • “How do you coordinate with PT/OT?”

Location matters too—kids often need more frequent adjustments than adults. Be sure that where you choose your providers can be easily accessed by your family for your child’s frequent visit needs.

3. Plan for a Smooth Transition

To prevent gaps in care:

  • Schedule a pre‑move prosthetic check.
     Have your current prosthetist check the fit, replace worn parts, perform a safety inspection, and provide extra supplies if appropriate.
  • Schedule an introduction visit with your new care team

Schedule a visit with your new care team shortly after your move. This will help you and your child get introduced to the new care team and build the relationship with your child for their care. It’s important you create a follow-up plan and know how to contact your new clinical care team in case your child needs adjustments or follow-up appointments. Meeting your new care team when it’s not urgent can help transition care smoothly.

  • Know when to seek care quickly.
     Watch for redness, pain, blisters, broken parts, or sudden changes in fit—especially while traveling.

4. Update Insurance Early

Insurance can change when you move, especially across state lines.

Consider:

  • Calling your insurance company before your move
  • Confirming in‑network prosthetic providers
  • Asking about continuity‑of‑care coverage
  • Letting the new clinic know when insurance updates are finalized

Prosthetic offices are typically very helpful with authorization paperwork. Having a case manager or special contact at the insurance company can help with insurance transitions and ensure your new plan will cover your child’s prosthesis.

5. Support Your Child Emotionally

New cities and new clinicians or doctors can feel intimidating.

Try:

  • Showing pictures of the new clinic
  • Simple explanations about meeting their “new helpers”
  • Encouraging them to share questions or worries
  • Touring the clinic if possible

Small reassurances go a long way.

6. Re‑establish Therapy and School Support

Once you arrive:

  • Schedule PT/OT evaluations early
  • Contact your child’s new school nurse, counselor, and teacher
  • Discuss mobility needs, safety, and any 504/IEP requirements
  • Make a plan for PE and recess activities if your child needs accommodations

Good communication makes the return to school smoother. A Limb Difference Clinic or Rehabilitation (PM&R) Physician may help with these transitions and establishing resources for support at your child’s school.

Be sure to connect your new care team to your child’s old providers. This can help facilitate communication and ease the transition between teams so your child has the best supports during this transition.

7. Share What Makes Your Child Unique

Let the new team know:

  • Your child’s hobbies and sports
  • What has worked—or what did not work—with past prostheses and therapies
  • Their preferred colors, themes, or designs

This helps create a prosthetic and care plan that fits not just their body, but their personality.

Remember: You’re Not Starting Over

Moving doesn’t erase your child’s progress—it simply adds a new team to support their journey. With a bit of preparation, your child’s prosthetic care can continue smoothly, safely, and confidently in your new home.

Disclaimer:

OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. should be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice, including intended use, warnings, precautions, side effects and contraindications. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions. 

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Debbie’s Prosthetic Journey: A Spina Bifida Success Story With OPSB

Every family’s path is different, especially when a child is born with medical challenges. But some stories stand out for the love, teamwork, and hope at their core. Debbie’s journey with spina bifida, her transformation after a major surgery, and her family’s experience with pediatric prosthetic experts at OPSB combine to offer guidance and hope for other families on a similar path.

Debbie’s Early Challenges with Spina Bifida

Debbie’s story began with her arrival into the world, bringing with it both joy and sudden, unexpected challenges. Debbie was born with spina bifida meningocele, a form of spina bifida where the spinal cord lining pushes out but is covered by skin. For her family, the first look at her legs was hard. She had a severe contracture in one leg—her foot bent up tight, pressing against her bottom at a 90-degree angle.

Her mom determined to give Debbie every chance, started the long process of . For two years, doctors and therapists tried to stretch and reshape her leg using a series of casts and braces. They saw some progress, with the angle improving to about 45 degrees, but time and time again, the tightness returned. Each time the casts came off, her leg would curl back.

This time was tough for both Debbie and her mom. Watching your child struggle, especially when therapy, orthopedic treatments, and bracing  brings only a little relief, brings its own kind of heartache. Still, her family pushed on, always hoping for a breakthrough.

A Life-Changing Decision

After two years, Debbie’s mom stood at a crossroad. Would another year bring more progress, or would they need to try something new? Together with her doctors and the OPSB team, they made the hard decision: at age two, Debbie would have a knee disarticulation surgery. This meant removing her leg at the knee joint, but without cutting the bone. The hope was that, with a prosthetic limb, Debbie could finally find freedom and movement.

Decisions like these aren’t easy. The thought of amputation is frightening for any parent. But Debbie, and her family leaned into her trusted relationship with the OPSB team to answer questions about questions about life with a prosthesis, so they felt prepared, educated, and ready for this big change.

Life After Knee Disarticulation and Prosthetic Use

The impact of this decision was clear as Debbie recovered and began using her prosthesis. Shortly after surgery, her life looked very different. No longer held back by her contractures, Debbie accomplished something that once seemed out of reach: she took her first independent steps.

Seeing Debbie walk on her own for the first time was a turning point for her family. Her mom remembers the thrill clearly, saying, “That first day she took those steps, it was just amazing. So I knew I made the right choice at that point.”

Today, Debbie is a joyful child who plays, explores, and rarely slows down. With her new leg, she fits right in with her friends. She doesn’t let her prosthesis hold her back and rarely even thinks about it.

Trusted Support: The Role of the Pediatric Certified Prosthetist Orthotist

From the very start, Debbie and her family worked closely with Lauren, a pediatric Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO) at OP Specialty Bracing. Lauren first met Debbie when she needed an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) as an infant, and a KAFO (knee ankle foot orthosis) for her contractures. Over the years, Lauren became more than just a healthcare provider. She listened, offered ideas, and became a partner in Debbie’s progress.

Debbie’s mom shares, “We click, we just click. I don’t know how else to explain it. I feel comfortable and I feel like I can express my concerns… She really listens and goes above and beyond.” This trust made a difference every step of the way, especially when it came time to make life-changing decisions.

Today, clinic visits are a highlight for Debbie—the team has turned what could be a stressful experience into something positive. “She’s not scared to go. She loves coming here; it’s like a fun day trip for her,” her mom says.

The Collaborative Care Team and Support System

 

What makes Debbie’s story even stronger is the collaborative environment at OPSB and their connections with CHOP (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia). Care at this clinic means more than just fitting a device It involves teamwork among doctors, therapists, prosthetists, orthopedic surgeons, rehab specialists, and, importantly, parents.

Having this network made a real difference. When Debbie’s family faced the decision about amputation, they could ask questions and talk with everyone involved. Krista, Debbi’s mom, was a key team member in advocating for her daughter. She worked closely with the CHOP and OPSB specialists to gather input from every corner, ensuring no voice was left out.

How Communication Builds Better Care

Open and regular communication made all the difference. Debbie’s mom could share daily observations about what was working and what wasn’t. This allowed the care team to brainstorm solutions and fine-tune Debbie’s braces and prostheses.

Key communication points included:

  • Families sharing daily challenges and successes
  • Team members brainstorming possible solutions
  • Coordination among doctors, therapists, and prosthetists
  • Making sure parents steer decisions about their child’s care

Lauren emphasizes, “Parents know best.” Healthcare providers don’t make decisions for families. Instead, they give all the details, options, and support—so the family can choose what’s right for their child.

Debbie’s mom says this teamwork made her feel safe and confident. She never felt alone or unheard. “It’s like she knows what I’m thinking, with the braces and prostheses, she goes above and beyond… I know we’re in the right spot for her. I feel it in my gut.”

Advice and Insights for Other Parents

Walking this path means facing tough choices. Debbie’s story is a reminder for other parents to stay informed, ask questions, and trust their instincts.

Here’s some practical advice for any parent navigating medical decisions for their child:

  1. Ask many questions. Don’t hesitate to seek details about your child’s diagnosis and all possible treatments.
  2. Request clear explanations. Don’t settle for jargon—ask until you understand.
  3. Expect real listening. Your concerns and ideas should be welcomed by the care team.
  4. Gather input from everyone. Don’t just rely on one opinion—pull together insights from all the specialists involved.

The biggest message is to trust your gut and keep searching until you feel comfortable. Debbie’s mom stresses the value of finding a provider who feels like family: “She goes above and beyond… It’s just amazing and I’m so thankful that, first shot, we got you… I know we’re in the right spot for her.”

Choosing a prosthetist who listens and adapts makes the experience better for everyone. You should feel safe expressing anything on your mind.

The collective effort at OPSB doesn’t just support the child’s physical progress, but also builds confidence and relief for parents.

Final Thoughts on Debbie’s Journey and Words of Encouragement

Debbie’s family faced big hurdles: a diagnosis that shaped her first years, a contracture that restricted her movement, years of therapy, and then the big decision to try amputation. But with each challenge, they found a turning point—thanks in large part to teamwork among specialists, their own resolve, and the caring professionals at OPSB.

Today, Debbie is walking, running, and enjoying life as she should. Her independence and happiness are proof that, even when choices seem overwhelming, there’s hope for a better tomorrow.

For families just beginning their own journey, be encouraged: you are your child’s best advocate. The right team will listen, share ideas openly, and stand alongside you. Choose experts who treat you as partners—not just patients.

If you’re looking for knowledgeable, compassionate care, consider reaching out to OPSB clinics for resources and support tailored for families facing similar challenges. Your child’s story can have a happy chapter, just like Debbie’s.

Disclaimer:

OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. should be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice, including intended use, warnings, precautions, side effects and contraindications. This video is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions.

Emery’s Prosthetic Journey: How Emery Found Confidence and Joy with Her Prosthesis at OPSB

Emery's prosthetic journey

When a child gets a new prosthesis the goal is more than mobility. It’s about giving them the freedom to play, run, and grow with their friends. Emery’s story brings that idea to life, showing how the right support can make all the difference for families searching for answers.

Emery and her family, like many others, faced tough odds as a military family adjusting to a new place. Moving across the country, Emery’s family had worries as her prosthesis always slowed down and didn’t fit well. The family was nervous about finding the right fit for Emery’s prosthetic care, especially knowing they are moving to a new area. But her experience at OPSB not only improved her mobility, it changed her daily life.

Emery’s Journey to Finding the Right Prosthetic Fit

Emery’s family knows all about change. As a military family, moving is a normal part of life. Before they came to their new city, Emery received her first prosthesis at a different clinic. She was excited, but it quickly became clear things weren’t quite right.

Prior to moving, the family just didn’t know what a correct prosthetic fit should feel like. Instead of freedom, Emery got discomfort. She couldn’t wear it for more than thirty minutes at a time before needing a break. Walking didn’t come easy. For Emery and her family, this was a time of frustration and questions without easy answers.

They weren’t sure what was wrong, but it was clear something was missing. Emery couldn’t run after her siblings. Playing became a chore instead of fun. The prosthesis that was supposed to help her instead left her sitting on the sidelines. The family felt stuck, worrying not just about Emery’s legs, but her whole experience as a growing child.

Lauren fitting Emery with Prosthesis

How OPSB Helped Emery Thrive with Her New Prosthetic

Everything changed for Emery when her family found Lauren Levey and the team at the OPSB clinic. From the start, Lauren focused on listening. She heard the details about Emery’s struggles and picked up on what made things tough for her. Instead of just checking a box, she worked to understand what Emery needed to keep up with her siblings and classmates.

The open conversations set the stage for real progress. Emery’s family finally felt heard. Lauren and the OPSB team approached each challenge with care, checking the fit, askin

g follow-up questions, and not stopping until Emery felt good about each change. They understood that families often know something’s not right, even if they can’t pinpoint the issue.

Here’s what stood out about the OPSB team’s approach:

  • Quick response to any concerns about fit or comfort
  • Personalized care to match Emery’s energy and activities
  • Creative, collaborative problem-solving member’s of Emery’s medical care team and other family members

This method worked wonders. Now, Emery wears her prosthesis all day, instead of just a half hour. It’s no longer just a piece of equipment—it’s become a second part of her. Lauren acted quickly any time issues popped up, always fitting Emery in for a fast adjustment. This gave both Emery and her parents peace of mind.

The difference shows in the way Emery moves. She’s out there running, jumping, and playing again with energy and joy. She keeps up with her brothers and sisters, joins in games, and tries all kinds of new things. Lauren and the OPSB team made a prosthesis that fits Emery’s busy, active life—not one that holds her back.

Collaborative Care and Long-Term Planning for Emery’s Prosthesis Use

Emery’s ongoing progress did not happen by accident. It came from the partnership at OPSB, where teamwork includes not only the prosthetic experts, but also orthopedic doctors and the family. This coordinated approach is key to keeping kids like Emery set up for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

For Emery, planning for the future matters a lot. She has a longer residual limb (the part of her leg still present after amputation), which creates unique needs. Making sure she has room for the right prosthetic parts, both now and when she grows, means thinking ahead.

Lauren and the team worked with Emery’s orthopedic doctor at CHOP to look at her leg’s structure. Together, they made sure that any necessary surgeries or tweaks to her limb would keep space open for new prosthetic parts down the road. That kind of teamwork avoids surprises and ensures Emery isn’t just okay today, but also in the years ahead.

Key long-term considerations for prosthesis users like Emery:

Lauren checking Prosthesis for correct fit
  • Planning space for new and improved prosthetic components as the child grows
  • Coordinating with orthopedic doctors for related surgeries or procedures
  • Regular fit & functional assessments, since kids grow and change fast

By planning with Emery’s growth and her active spirit in mind, the OPSB team supports a life of possibilities.

Making Activity-Friendly and Child-Friendly Prosthetic Devices

A child’s prosthesis should be more than functional; it should let kids be kids. Emery’s story highlights how important it is for prosthesis design to keep up with an active, bold personality.

Once Emery got her new prosthesis, she found herself able to run, jump, and play freely again. That freedom goes beyond physical movement. Kids need to join playground games, laugh on the swings, or chase their friends in tag. Physical confidence helps children like Emery thrive emotionally, too.

Comfort and ease of use come first in the fitting process. The new prosthesis had to allow flexibility for everything in Emery’s day, from sports to dress-up games.

Here are some activities Emery enjoys now that used to feel out of reach:

  • Racing her siblings at the park
  • Playing hide and seek for hours
  • Jumping on the trampoline
  • Swinging on the monkey bars
  • Running during recess at school

All this is possible thanks to support from her family, Lauren, and the clinical team at OPSB. They work together, adjusting the fit as Emery grows and listening to feedback. For everyone involved, keeping the lines of communication open is key. With each adjustment, Emery’s confidence grows.

Summary of Key Takeaways from Emery’s Prosthetic Experience at OPSB

Emery’s journey shows the power of teamwork, patience, and the right support. Families facing similar challenges can take heart in these lessons:

Key Lessons from Emery’s Story

  • A proper prosthetic fit is critical—comfort and function go hand in hand.
  • Personalized care makes progress possible. Listen to the child’s needs and trust family input.
  • Collaboration between families, prosthetists, and doctors helps children stay active and confident.
  • Quick fixes and regular check-ins help kids keep doing what they love.
  • Planning for both today and tomorrow means preparing for ongoing growth and activity.

With Lauren and the OPSB team’s help, Emery is more than just mobile—she’s full of energy, confidence, and joy. Her story reminds us that with the right team, every child can find their stride.

If you want to see the full transformation and hear directly from Emery’s family and the OPSB team, you can watch their inspiring story:

Emery’s experience is a powerful example of how expert care, teamwork, and a true commitment to the child’s whole well-being can turn tough beginnings into new chances for joy. For families, it’s proof that hope and help are out there—sometimes in the very next fitting room.

Disclaimer:

OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. should be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice, including intended use, warnings, precautions, side effects and contraindications. This video is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions.

This website is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or replace consultation with your healthcare provider. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PEDIATRICIAN OR ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST FOR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE REGARDING DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OPTIONS. OPSB products should be used under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Full prescribing information can be found in product labeling. Individual results may vary.

Medical Disclaimer

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