How much will a prosthetic leg cost after limb loss on the job?

Amputations are among the most traumatic accidents people can suffer on the job. Sometimes, the accident on the job severs a body part. Other times, it damages the tissue so badly that doctors feel that surgical amputation is the only possible treatment.

Recovery after an amputation often takes some time. People may require hospitalization and rehabilitation. They will also likely need physical therapy. For those who want to continue living independently or working after losing a limb, prosthetic limbs could help them achieve that goal.

How much does it cost to get a prosthetic leg?

Prosthetic limbs will cost thousands of dollars, and not just once

There is a massive range of potential costs related to prosthetic legs. The most basic and inexpensive versions could cost as little as $5,000. However, these prosthetics are only useful for standing on even surfaces.

Moving over uneven terrain, going up stairs or running will all require far more advanced prosthetic technology. Devices that help people move like those without an amputation will usually cost over  $10,000. In addition to the expense for the prosthetic itself, an individual may require physical therapy to adjust to its use.

It’s important to realize that a single prosthetic limb will likely only serve its purpose for a limited amount of time. People need to have their prosthetic routinely evaluated for function and wear — replacing and upgrading it as new technology becomes available. Understanding the full costs of having a prosthetic limb can help people who are filing a workers’ compensation claim after an amputation on the job.