The needs of a child amputee are different from that of an adult. They grow in spurts and the prosthesis needs to be able to take this into account. Adjustability in the socket is essential but even with this it is often the case that child amputees will require frequent prosthetic replacements.

There are two reasons why a child becomes an amputee. The first is trauma or disease which requires the removal of a limb. There are few things more tragic than having a child lose a limb. The provision of a prosthesis is only part of the rehabilitation process, the other part is motivation. As an amputee for over thirty years, I don't have any pity for other amputees. What I can offer is motivation, encouragement, and knowledge of what to expect from prosthetics.

The other cause of childhood amputations is congenital birth defects. These can result in anomalies of the residual limb that prosthetists often find challenging. I have worked with dozens of PFFD's (Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiencies) and other defects that have defied other prosthetists. I approach each case as a unique opportunity to use what is left to create the most functional and cosmetically pleasing prosthesis possible. I also believe that congenital amputees need to be fitted as soon as possible so that the prosthesis quickly becomes an integral part of their life.

Today there is a vast array of child prosthetic components. Knees and feet that are specifically designed for children are now available from most manufacturers. It is also important to provide prostheses that allow children to engage in activities with their peers.