South Africa · Prosthetic care

Prosthetic limbs & limb replacement in South Africa

A prosthetic limb, also called an artificial limb or prosthesis, replaces a missing part of an arm or leg. It is an external device—not limb-transplant surgery. The right option depends on your health, needs and goals.

What does prosthetic mean?

“Prosthetic” describes an artificial device that replaces a missing body part; the device itself is a prosthesis. This registry focuses on limb loss and prosthetic arms and legs. A prosthetist assesses and fits artificial limbs, while an orthosis supports an existing body part rather than replacing it.

First artificial limb, replacement or repair?

When registering with THUBSMED, describe whether you need your first prosthetic limb, replacement of an existing device, a socket change or a repair or adjustment. Include your province and district, current mobility and any existing device so an authorised provider can review the need.

Prosthetic legs: below-knee and above-knee options

A below-knee prosthesis is used after a transtibial amputation, where the knee is retained. An above-knee prosthesis is used after a transfemoral amputation and includes a prosthetic knee component. Both need an individually fitted socket and suitable components selected through assessment.

An artificial leg is not a single standard product. Your health, residual limb, mobility, daily activities and goals help determine which option may be appropriate.

Prosthetic arms, hands and upper-limb devices

Upper-limb prostheses may be considered after loss of part of an arm or hand. Different devices can support different tasks. An assessment considers the level of limb loss, comfort, function and the activities that matter to you; an artificial arm is not suitable for every person or every activity.

Assessment, fitting and follow-up

Discuss your medical history, healing, mobility and everyday goals with your care team.
A prosthetist assesses suitability and possible device options.
Fitting and adjustments are followed by training and rehabilitation where appropriate.
Follow-up checks comfort, skin health, function and changing needs.

The order and timing depend on your clinical situation. Report discomfort or skin problems to your care team.

Prosthetic leg costs and funding

There is no single price for an artificial leg. Assessment, components, fitting, rehabilitation and follow-up can affect costs. Ask your provider for an individual quotation and check eligibility with your medical aid, public service or other funder. The registry records funding information; it does not guarantee coverage or free devices.

Replacing a prosthetic limb, socket or worn component

People searching for limb replacement may need their first artificial limb, a replacement for an existing prosthesis, a new socket, or a repair. Changes in fit, comfort or function should be reviewed by a prosthetist. Do not attempt to adjust or repair prosthetic components yourself.

The registry can record lower-limb and upper-limb prosthetic needs, socket replacement and repair or adjustment requests. Add details of your existing device and the difficulties you are experiencing for an authorised provider to review.

Finding prosthetic care in South Africa

Ask your treating hospital or clinic about a referral to prosthetic and rehabilitation services. If using private care, ask the provider what assessment, fitting, training and follow-up are included. Availability, referral requirements and funding eligibility differ between services.

Tell your provider whether you have medical aid, public-health funding, or a possible Road Accident Fund or work-injury claim. The responsible funder determines eligibility and approval; registering with THUBSMED does not establish entitlement.

Common questions about prosthetics and limb replacement

Is limb replacement the same as a prosthetic limb?: On this website, limb replacement means an external prosthetic arm or leg, or replacement of an existing device. It does not mean limb-transplant surgery.
How much does a prosthetic leg cost in South Africa?: Costs vary with the socket, components, assessment, fitting and ongoing care. Ask for an itemised quotation and confirm what your funder will cover before proceeding; this registry does not publish a standard device price.
Can I get a free prosthetic leg?: Coverage depends on the service or funding scheme and its eligibility rules. Ask your treating clinic or funder about your options. The registry does not promise a free artificial limb.
When should my prosthesis be checked?: Keep the follow-up appointments advised by your care team. Contact them if the socket no longer fits, the device feels unstable, or you develop discomfort or skin problems. The team can determine whether adjustment, repair or replacement is needed.

Amputation recovery and amputee rehabilitation