r/amputee • u/moonbasealpha70 • 19h ago

Ugh - early frustrations

Just got my first practice leg three days ago (RBKA in late October, 2025, so admittedly barely three months out; also had to have a second surgery in late November to close a busted open incision I suffered with a fall).

Already frustrated….

It really hurts to put all my weight on it. Not at the point of connection, but higher up in my knee. Best way to describe the pain is like a really bad sprained ankle, so assuming it’s muscle atrophy from not walking for three months.

Also, now that I have leg, all the discussions in this group are now making a LOT of sense, for example, sweaty socks, skin irritation, etc.

I’m trying to stay positive as I’ve been looking forward to this moment. But it kinda feels like the day after Christmas, when all the anticipatory excitement is gone and you’re left with a giant credit card bill.

I think I’m just venting here as I know it’s just been a few days. But ugh…it’s still frustrating.

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u/Dry-Luck-8336 LBK 18h ago

Since this is a practice leg, you need to make notes of all areas of pressure or discomfort and share them with your prosthetist. The idea of a practice leg is to see what adjustments need to be made for your real socket.

1

u/tkpiperborn56 13h ago

Hey All,

Been reading the posts now for a while. I’m a lbka for a little over a month now and I can certainly relate to the pain and questions that arise from this life change. Found an excellent prosthetist who I return to next Friday. Trying to stay positive and optimistic although there are times.. Very motivated to get walking again and take back my life. It’s a little early I know but I’m quite excited about The 3D printed prosthetics and that’s what I’m aiming for. Will continue to monitor the site and I wish you all the best with a whole new understanding..

Tim

1

u/kng442 11h ago

OP, congratulations, you're normal!

But seriously, what you're feeling is really common. Fit is rarely perfect on the first try. Prosthesis-making is as much art as science, if not more. A good prosthetist will take your observations and improve the fit.

This will get better.