A Guide to Your First Prosthesis: What to Expect When Starting Your Prosthetic Journey

Losing a limb changes your life, but it doesn’t define it.

At Floyd Brace Company, we’ve walked beside South Carolinians through this journey since 1942, helping them regain confidence, comfort, and independence with expertly fitted prosthetics.

If you’re preparing for your first prosthesis, you may be wondering what lies ahead. This guide will help you understand the process, what to expect physically and emotionally, and how our team supports you every step of the way.

The Path Ahead: Understanding the Process

Your first prosthesis isn’t just a device, it’s part of your recovery and independence. Here’s what the journey typically looks like:

Step 1: Consultation & Evaluation

Your first visit starts with a conversation. Your prosthetist will review your medical history, discuss your lifestyle, and listen to your goals. Whether you want to get back to work, run again, or simply walk comfortably, this step ensures your prosthesis is designed for you.

Step 2: Design & Custom Fitting

Next comes the mold or digital scan of your residual limb. This allows our clinicians to design a socket that fits precisely and securely.

Our in-house fabrication team uses advanced materials and technology to build your prosthesis, ensuring it’s both functional and comfortable.

Step 3: Initial Fitting

You’ll try on your prosthesis for the first time. This is often an emotional milestone, seeing yourself stand, move, or walk again.

Your clinician will make careful adjustments to ensure proper alignment and balance. Don’t worry if it feels strange at first, that’s completely normal.

Step 4: Training & Physical Therapy

Once your prosthesis fits comfortably, physical therapists help you relearn movements and strengthen your muscles.

You’ll practice walking, balance, and navigating daily activities. The goal is progress, not perfection. Every step forward counts.

Step 5: Follow-Ups & Adjustments

Your comfort and performance are monitored closely in the weeks and months ahead. Your Floyd Brace clinician will schedule follow-ups to make sure the fit stays perfect as your limb changes.

We’re with you for the long haul, not just the first fitting.

Pro Tip: Every person’s journey is unique. Your prosthesis is designed for your goals, your comfort, and your future.

What to Expect — Physically and Emotionally

The road to recovery involves more than physical healing. It’s a journey of patience, courage, and rediscovery.

Many new amputees experience a mix of emotions: hope, frustration, pride, and sometimes grief. That’s all normal. Learning to walk again, finding your balance, and trusting your body takes time.

You may also experience phantom limb sensations, muscle soreness, or skin irritation early on. Your Floyd Brace clinician will guide you through managing these changes safely and comfortably.

Most patients find that within a few weeks, they start to feel more at home with their prosthesis and more confident every day.

“Every new step is a victory. Confidence builds one stride at a time, and you don’t have to take that step alone.”
— Floyd Brace Clinical Team

Remember, emotional recovery is just as important as physical progress. Many of our patients find comfort in connecting with local amputee support groups or online communities where they can share stories and encouragement.

Your First Fitting: Comfort, Questions, and Confidence

Your first fitting appointment is all about you: your comfort, your feedback, and your progress.

Here’s what to expect:

• Gentle fitting and alignment: Your prosthetist will check the comfort and make minor adjustments.

• Education: You’ll learn how to clean and care for your prosthesis, manage your skin health, and establish a wear schedule.

• Questions encouraged: No concern is too small. Ask anything, from how tight it should feel to when to call for an adjustment.

At Floyd Brace, you’ll see the same caring clinician at every visit, ensuring continuity and trust throughout your journey.

Need help preparing for your first visit?
Our team is happy to walk you through what to bring and what to expect. Schedule your consultation here.

Life After the Prosthesis: Walking, Moving, Living

The day you take your first steps with your prosthesis marks a new beginning, not an end.

Here are a few simple habits that will help you stay comfortable and confident:

• Wear the right socks or liners: They protect your skin and improve comfort.

• Keep your limb and prosthesis clean: Prevent irritation and maintain good hygiene.

• Do your exercises: Strengthening your core and legs improves balance and mobility.

• Communicate: If something doesn’t feel right, schedule an adjustment right away. Small changes can make a big difference.

Many Floyd Brace patients find themselves achieving goals they once thought impossible like returning to work, playing with their kids, or even running a 5K.

Your journey is yours to define, and we’re honored to be part of it.

Why Choose Floyd Brace Company

For more than 80 years, Floyd Brace has been South Carolina’s trusted hometown expert in prosthetics and orthotics.

What sets us apart:

• Board-Certified Clinicians with decades of combined experience.

• Custom-Fabricated Devices made for precision, comfort, and durability.

• Continuity of Care — the same clinician follows you from day one.

• Heartfelt Support — we treat every patient like family.

From Charleston to Conway, Irmo to Walterboro, our team provides the same promise that’s guided us since 1942:

Expert care and heartfelt support — every step of the way.

Ready to Take Your First Step?

Whether you’re recovering from surgery or preparing for your first prosthesis, Floyd Brace is here to help you move forward with confidence.

Call your nearest Floyd Brace clinic or schedule a consultation.
Let’s take your next step, together.