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CostHelper > Health & Personal Care  > Medical Equipment and Orthopedics > Prosthetic Leg

Prosthetic Leg Cost


How Much Does a Prosthetic Leg Cost?

 
average costWith Health Insurance: Copays + 10%-50% Coinsurancehigh costWithout Health Insurance: $10,000-$70,000+

A prosthetic leg can be used when a patient has had part or all of a leg amputated, often due to diabetes or an injury. Prosthetic legs range from basic devices that allow a patient to walk on a flat surface to computerized legs that allow patients to run or engage in extreme sports.

Typical costs:

  • For patients with health insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically consist of doctor visit copays and coinsurance of 10%-50%. All types of prosthetic legs typically are covered by health insurance, but the particular leg that will be covered usually depends on the individual patient's amputation level, condition and needs. For example, The BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina policy for lower-limb prostheses[1] states that myoelectric, or computer-controlled, prosthetic legs would be covered for patients who have the physical strength and demonstrated need to move for long distances at variable rates of speed or over uneven terrain. A basic prosthetic leg might be covered for a homebound individual who needs to move around the house.
  • For patients without health insurance, a prosthetic leg typically costs less than $10,000 for a basic prosthetic leg up to $70,000 or more for a more advanced computerized prosthetic leg controlled by muscle movements. Costs depend on the type of leg and the level of amputation.
  • For example, according to a white paper[2] from the Bioengineering Institute Center for Neuroprosthetics, at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute, a basic below-the-knee prosthetic that would allow a patient to walk on flat ground costs $5,000-$7,000, while one that would allow the patient to walk on stairs and bumpy ground could cost $10,000. For a device that would allow a patient to walk and run as well as a non-amputee, the cost could go up to $15,000. Prosthetics with special hydraulic or mechanical systems that allow for movement control can cost more than $15,000. And a computer-assisted prosthetic leg costs $20,000 or more. According to Brown University, the C-Leg computerized prosthetic leg[3] by Otto-Bock, for above-the-knee amputees, can cost as much as $50,000, or up to $70,000 or more, including the prosthetic foot.
  • A prosthetic leg likely will need to be replaced several times during a patient's lifetime, and patients need ongoing adjustments. A Department of Veterans Affairs study[4] showed the average lifetime cost for prosthetics and medical care for loss of a single leg for a veteran of the Iraq or Afghanistan wars was more than $1.4 million.
Related articles: Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Health Insurance

What should be included:
  • A few weeks or months after amputation surgery, the patient meets with a prosthetist, a health professional who specializes in evaluating and fitting patients with prostheses. The prosthetist takes measurements of the patient and creates a cast of the stump so a temporary prosthesis can be created, to be used for a year or longer while the stump heals and changes shape and size due to muscle atrophy.
  • When the stump has stabilizes, the patient will meet with the prosthetist again to get details about the different types of permanent prosthetic limbs available. The prosthetist will take another cast of the stump, and the permanent prosthetic leg will be created.
  • After testing the prosthetic leg both in the prosthetist's office and during daily activities, the patient will return for a final fitting. If desired, a cosmetic cover can be created in the style chosen by the patient. The Amputee Coalition offers an overview of prosthetic knee types and technology[5] , including pneumatic or hydraulic knees and more advanced knees controlled by microprocessors.
  • LimbSpecialists.com offers a step-by-step guide[6] to the process of getting a prosthetic leg.
Additional costs:
  • Physical therapy and occupational therapy, which helps patients learn how to perform daily tasks at home or work, will be required. Physical therapy typically costs $50-$350 per session, and occupational therapy can cost $50-$400 per session. Total costs for therapy can reach tens of thousands of dollars. The Amputee Coalition offers a guide to physical and occupational therapy[7] .
Discounts:
  • Various non-profit organizations provide financial help or free prosthetic limbs for patients in need. The Amputee Coalition offers a list of financial resources and non-profits[8] .
Shopping for a prosthetic leg:
  • OandPCare.org offers a prosthetist locator[9] . A patient should be evaluated and fitted for a prosthetic leg by a prosthetist who is certified by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics[10] or the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification [11] .
  • The Amputee Coalition offers tips on choosing a prosthetist[12] .
  • MedScape.com provides a guide to choosing a prosthetic leg[13] .
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
 
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What People Are Paying - Recent Comments
Only paid remaining deductible
Amount: $6,500.00
Posted by: Predatorhousepet in San Antonio, TX.Posted: September 11th, 2021 12:09PM
Type of Leg: Above knee prosthetic with microprocessoProsthetist:
My BCBS plan covered 100% of cost after deductible. My deductible was $8500 but I had already paid $2500 of that for previous medical procedures. I added a $500 protective cover not covered by insurance so my total cost was $6500 for an above the knee (transfemoral) prosthetic consisting of a rigid carbon fiber suction socket, an Ottobock C-leg 4 microprocessor knee, protective cover and split toe foot. I saw what the bill would have been without insurance and that came out to $64,688.69 including everything. My prosthetist required 50% of copay down before sending off to lamination and 50% upon delivery.
I talked to my prosthetist about the Martin Bionics socketless socket because it seemed more lightweight but she said for my first socket I need to use suction because my leg will change size dramatically in the first year. She says after the size becomes stable I am the perfect candidate for that type of socket so just be patient (44 yrs old, 125lb, lost leg to infection)
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Help getting water leg for therapy
Amount: $18,000.00
Posted by: Bettina Burg in Cincinnati, OH.Posted: May 19th, 2021 05:05PM
Type of Leg: Right below knee prosthetic water legProsthetist: Abilities in Motion
I’m in desperate need of below right knee prosthetic for water therapy. Due to my severe back disease I’m told I need severe water therapy befor able to do land pt or it.
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service costs of prosthetic leg
Amount: $22,000.00
Posted by: mooner23 in kalamazoo, MI.Posted: December 8th, 2020 05:12AM
Type of Leg: below knee right legProsthetist: na
leg built in 2018....fit never good, as I went back for service, seems like trying to upsell me for new leg or socket to correct. seems like for leg in good condition should this evolve into more costs to this extreme? Please let me know if they should continue to service or they are correct they have to rebuild or new...spent 8000 out of pocket first time. thanks
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Below knee prosthetic leg
Amount: $0.00
Posted by: James k Latch Jackie latch in Corinth, MS.Posted: October 10th, 2019 12:10PM
Type of Leg: Left under kneeProsthetist: checking on
52 yr old man loves his motorcycle but can't ride. Is in wheelchair for now. Has medicade ins. They want pay . Doesn't make sence. Drawing SSI an trying to take care of me his mother almost 70 yrs.old. Needs help
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need help with my Prosthesis legs
Amount: $0.00
Posted by: Arthur Benion in middle island, NY.Posted: August 10th, 2019 03:08PM
Type of Leg: below kneeProsthetist: Dr Bryne Goodman
I'am a bilateral amputee. I'am 75 years old. that's old, but i'am very healthy I want to walk but I cannot because the pin lock system i'am using make my socket hert my stump. I like to ind some one to help me with the finance. Thanks
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prosthetic
Amount: $0.00
Posted by: Debra L Rutherford in West Valley, MI.Posted: March 30th, 2018 12:03PM
Type of Leg: Right below kneeProsthetist:
I am a 59yr old female...I lost my leg in 2008...have been in a wheelchair for 3yrs. I so want to walk again! Please..Medicare won't cover for many years still...please help if you can. Thankyou
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Left below knee elevated vacuum with high activity foot
Amount: $14,500.00
Posted by: Caffeinated24x7 in Dallas, TX.Posted: February 8th, 2018 01:02AM
Type of Leg: Below kneeProsthetist: M Power Prosthetics
It amazes me that even with insurance, I have to pay so much out of pocket. I work for IBM and with my $5800 deductible and $13800 max out of pocket annual, I might as well just pay for the whole thing. They only cover 45% once the deductible is met. How can anyone survive when the bills are so high? Thanks IBM and Aetna. Worst ever. When I had BCBS, I paid a whopping $1000 total. Unbelievable.
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prostetic leg help
Amount: $0.00
Posted by: Berta in Albany, GA.Posted: June 5th, 2017 08:06AM
Type of Leg: lylin processorProsthetist: limbcare
it has been 2 years and my socket is still too big. my foot turns inward and I can only apply the one yellows sock. Anymore and my leg will not go down into the socket. I am unable to walk without assist due to this.I have been unable to find help and when I did it has taken so for 6 weeks to get a price quote.* central orthotoc )
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Need or would really appreciate a foot that have movement
Amount: $0.00
Posted by: Brenda Sue Daeges in Omaha, NE.Posted: March 31st, 2017 11:03AM
Type of Leg: MetalProsthetist: Regular one paid by medicaid
I was wondering if i could get help in being fitted with a foot that have movement in it I'm 47and need to find somewhere someone's who can Help me with this foot which i cannot afford because I'm disabled on top of thid
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New prosthetic leg
Amount: $0.00
Posted by: Carolyn Dorris in Hendersonville, TN.Posted: February 1st, 2017 05:02AM
Type of Leg: Above kneeProsthetist: Has none
He has no insurance so therefore no one will help us. This is for my 25 Year grandson
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First time.. And no more coverage
Amount: $10.00
Posted by: April White in Fayetteville, NC.Posted: August 18th, 2016 07:08AM
Type of Leg: TitaniumProsthetist: Below right knee
I had blood clots that was found 4 mts later.. Left me with app of right leg.. Below knee..got my first prosthetic temp leg.. Its been over 9 mts now went to get adjustments made and new liner.. Found out my insurance was cancel.. Because my husband left me and quite his job... So right now im stuck with this extra big prosthetic and no help on the fitting.. And my shoes and clothes are not fitting and i cant afford to buy anything right now.. I got plenty of shoes and clothing bit nothing fits this prosthetic.. What can i do... Please its leaving my leg extra sore and discolor...
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Cost for Medicare
Amount: $128,000.00
Posted by: Christopher McCoy in Indianapolis, IN.Posted: January 15th, 2016 04:01PM
Type of Leg: Ottobock C LegsProsthetist: Hanger
Dbl leg above knee and each leg cost about 61,000$ + additional socket change
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childhood train accident
Amount: $15,000.00
Posted by: aliciaforramon in Laurel, NE.Posted: November 12th, 2015 08:11PM
Type of Leg: anyProsthetist: above the knee
Hi. My name is Alicia and I'm writing this for my fiance, Ramon. He is 27 and been an amputee for 19 years. He was injured in a train accident when he was eight. The medical care he received stopped at 21 years old, so he hasn't had a new mold, adjustments, straps, NOTHING in six years. Due to natural growth, his need for a massive adjustment or a new leg has become severe. He is very strong and long to be active and work so he can take care of us. I hope we figure it out soon but until then I'll keep advocating for Ramon. Btw he was born in Mexico and although the train accident happened here, the lawsuit didn't include medical coverage for life. In my opinion, him and his family were extremely taken advantage of. He needs help. He wasn't nothing more than to wake up and go. But when it hurts too bad to balance in a stilt for 8 hours, life becomes mundane and depressing. It can lead to a hopeless heart. We need help [email protected] contact us with any information. TH!
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Above knee amuptee
Amount: $81,000.00
Posted by: Lee. Wendinger in Mankato, MN.Posted: November 11th, 2015 05:11PM
Type of Leg: Xmark c leg Otto bockProsthetist: Lim lab. Mankato minn
Yes I lost my leg 35 years ago. I Made. Dam sure I had insurance 99 percent of the time I've had 14 different legs computerize. High drulaliks I drive truck coast to coast I've always pay my insurance the last three years. My company didn't have in insurance I bought my own premiums 350 month now. Going to bee $440 month. I got to have it I work like hell. Unload my freight work two weeks at a time long story short I've had so surgery on my leg when I went back too work I worked 70 hours a week some times I didn't go fishing or hunting for years saved my money made sure I had insurance too pay for my high tech fancy legs made my life better yes. !!when you can walk Good. Life is better yes
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Need help
Amount: $3,000.00
Posted by: [email protected] in Crossville, AL.Posted: August 31st, 2015 03:08AM
Type of Leg: Right leg titanumProsthetist: Dr. Drummend
We are in desperate need of a titanum above the knee for my mother. She is so depressed because she got a heavy leg with pin that she can't even lift due to its weight.
This is horrible and we need someome who can make her a leg that actually fits and does not weigh so much so she can walk.
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Help with cost of prosthetic leg
Amount: $10,000.00
Posted by: Joshua "Jodge" Thomas in Taylor, PA.Posted: August 24th, 2015 08:08PM
Type of Leg: Ossur flex run knee and footProsthetist: Keyston Prosthetics
On June 8,2014 I was riding my Harley when I stuck by a vehicle that was going 70 mph. I was thrown 75 feet away from the point of impact. I was on life support for 2 days. When I finally pulled through I had my leg amputated below my knee. However the trauma was so severe I had to have another surgery and they amputated above the knee. On this day my life changed forever.I loved the freedom of riding a motorcycle and most importantly I loved helping others. So I served as part of the EMS team in New York City on 9/11 then went on to become a police officer. I started a program called Cops for Christ to bring cops together through God. I also served as a police officer in a local high school for several years. Prior to the accident I was a Corrections Officer at the county prison. I was very active in weight lifting competitions as well. I took 1st place in the Pennsylvania Police Olympics. I am 36 years old and I have 4 children ages 7,8,12 and 13. Any help would be appreciated.
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wooden then titaium leg
Amount: $25.00
Posted by: khalaf albarjas in kuwit city, Other.Posted: May 14th, 2015 08:05AM
Type of Leg: right legProsthetist: above te knee
Dear Sir;
I'm a handicapped. I am a male. I'm forty one years old. My leg is amputated above the knee, from the upper part of my leg. It was from twenty five years ago. I am 185 cm tall. And I am 90 kg weight. I used so many kinds of artificial limbs. I used the wooden limb with a wooden knee. Then I used titanium legs. The Titan is more comfortable and stronger than the wooden one. I still have phantom limbs. I saw some YouTube videos about advanced prosthetic legs. Those who are using them are walking smoothly and comfortably. They don't limp; or it is not that clear. How can you, kindly, help me with this? I want to know some details about the prosthetic legs "above the knee":
By the way I am a teacher for special needs. I teach English for deaf boys.
Thank you Sir
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sale of prosthetic right foot and leg Hydraulic
Amount: $3,200.00
Posted by: Derek in Las Vegas, NV.Posted: March 28th, 2015 07:03PM
Type of Leg: Right titanum legProsthetist: Hanger Prosthetics
I have 6 Right foot hydraulic a for sale paid ranging from 3,200.0 till 850.00 will sale all for 8,900.00 with pumps from 2009-2013
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A for looks only leg for 94 yr old lady
Amount: $500.00
Posted by: Cindi myers in Bennington, VT.Posted: March 9th, 2015 04:03AM
Type of Leg: Looks realProsthetist: Fake
My gram is in need of a looks real for pride as she is so embarressed won't go far like she use too...I want to help her enjoy what life may be in front of her...
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prosthetic right leg
Amount: $700.00
Posted by: tia aier in nagaland, IN.Posted: October 31st, 2014 10:10PM
Type of Leg: right legProsthetist: pune india
I had my first peosthesis 8years ago. I didnt went to a doctor till then because of financial constraint. If anyone is willing to help me,u r giving me a new life again
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above knee prosthesis
Amount: $37,000.00
Posted by: tim Przybylski in Baltimore, MD.Posted: September 11th, 2014 03:09PM
Type of Leg: full suction,hydraulic knee,hydraulic anProsthetist: metro prosthetics
Medicare pays 80%piçked up kaiser permanente they said they would pay80% of the 20% left and I would end up paying 20% that wss left.,After 8 months Kaiser refused to pay., Bottom line Kaiser took àdvantage of me.Now I have to pay the 20% after Medicare played ,80%
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Help with cost of prosthetic
Amount: $10,000.00
Posted by: Samorrow in Detroit, MI.Posted: August 6th, 2014 02:08PM
Type of Leg: Bk right leglProsthetist: Tom Compton
Lost leg in aug of 2006 then lost med coverage and short term disability from work I am now in the process of filing for federal dis ability but I have been denied in mean time I can barely walk on leg because it dose not fit properly and because of that I have serious sores and mark on it
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Prosthetic leg
Amount: $3,000.00
Posted by: Juan Ortga in El Paso, TX.Posted: May 13th, 2014 12:05PM
I need the prosthetic leg is to patien my father, he have diabets y he have 85 year old. He need one prosthetic leg.
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External Resources:
  1.  www.bcbsnc.com/assets/services/public/pdfs/medicalpolicy/microprocessor_controlled...
  2.  www.nist.gov/tip/wp/pswp/upload/239_limb_prosthetics_services_devices.pdf
  3.  biomed.brown.edu/Courses/BI108/2006-108websites/group07HighTechProsthetics/pages/c...
  4.  www.rehab.research.va.gov/jour/10/474/Blough.html
  5.  www.amputee-coalition.org/military-instep/knees.html
  6.  limbspecialists.azamputee.com/new-amputee.html
  7.  www.amputee-coalition.org/military-instep/reclaiming-independence.html
  8.  www.amputee-coalition.org/fact_sheets/assist_orgs.html
  9.  www.oandpcare.org/Search
  10.  www.abcop.org/certification/OrthotistsProsthetists/Pages/Default.aspx
  11.  www.bocusa.org/becoming-certified
  12.  www.amputee-coalition.org/first_step_2003/choosing-a-prosthetist.html
  13.  emedicine.medscape.com/article/317358-overview
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