5 Questions to Ask Your Prosthetist Before Getting a Prosthesis in Austin
If you’re preparing to get a prosthesis for the first time, chances are you have a lot of questions—and maybe even a few nerves. That’s completely normal. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel in your journey.
At Tech Ridge Prosthetics, our Austin-area patients often tell us how helpful it was to ask the right questions early in the process. Here are 5 important ones to bring to your first appointment with a prosthetist.
1. What Type of Prosthesis Is Right for Me?
There’s no one-size-fits-all prosthesis. The type of prosthesis that’s best for you depends on:
Your level of amputation (e.g. below-knee, above-knee)
Your lifestyle and activity level
Your long-term goals
Our team in Pflugerville, just outside Austin, works closely with each patient to determine the best solution—whether it’s for everyday walking, work, or more active movement like hiking or biking.
2. What’s the Process Like from Start to Finish?
Understanding the timeline helps ease anxiety. Ask your prosthetist to walk you through:
The evaluation
Casting and measurements
Socket fitting
Physical therapy
Follow-up visits
💬 At Tech Ridge, we typically begin the process within days of your first consultation, and we do all our fabrication in-house to keep things moving quickly.
3. How Will My Prosthesis Be Customized to Fit Me?
The socket is the most important part—it needs to fit just right. Ask:
Will it be custom-molded?
How are adjustments made?
What if my limb changes shape over time?
We use the latest materials and techniques to ensure a secure, comfortable fit for every patient. And because we’re local, adjustments are easy to schedule—right here in the Austin area.
4. What Kind of Support Will I Get After I Receive My Prosthesis?
Receiving your prosthesis is only the beginning. Ongoing support is critical. Ask:
How often will I come in for check-ups?
Will I need replacements or adjustments?
Do you offer help coordinating with my physical therapist?
Our team is known for providing long-term support and being just a phone call away whenever you need us.
5. What Should I Expect with Insurance and Coverage?
Navigating insurance can be one of the most stressful parts of the process. Ask your prosthetist:
Are you in-network with my insurance?
Will you help with paperwork and authorizations?
What is and isn’t covered?
At Tech Ridge Prosthetics, we have insurance experts on staff who handle authorizations and help you understand your benefits clearly—so you can focus on healing.
Bonus: Ask About Their Experience and Team
You deserve a care team that listens, encourages, and truly understands what you're going through. Ask:
How long have you been practicing?
Do you work with other amputees like me?
Can I meet the team?
Many of our patients love working with Nathan, a member of our team who is an amputee himself. Having someone who’s walked in your shoes (literally) can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Asking these questions up front can help you feel more confident and in control of your prosthetic journey. If you're in Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, or anywhere nearby, our team at Tech Ridge Prosthetics is here to support you with honest answers, expert care, and compassionate service.
🤝 Ready to Talk with a Prosthetist?
Call us at (512) 593-1170 or book a consultation online to get started. We’re proud to serve patients across Austin and Central Texas.