Questions we hear a lot

A referral is helpful and often required by medical aids for claims purposes, but you're welcome to contact us directly to discuss your situation.

We'll advise whether a referral is needed for your specific case.

Contact our practice by phone or email to arrange an initial consultation, or use the Book An Appointment feature on the website.

We'll ask a few questions upfront so we can prepare properly for your visit.

Casting for a prosthetic can often begin once your residual limb has healed sufficiently, sometimes within a few weeks of surgery. For orthotic needs, we can usually see you as soon as required.

Get in touch and we'll give you a realistic timeline for your case.

We’ll take the time to understand your condition, listen to your goals and lifestyle, and make sure we have everything we need to support you. Where needed, we’ll take measurements or a cast and talk you through the best options for your individual needs — so you can feel confident about the next steps.

Most medical aid schemes have a Prosthetic or Orthotic Benefit, and amputation is also a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition, meaning your scheme is required to fund a defined level of care.

Coverage amounts vary widely by scheme and plan. We'll help you submit the required documentation and pre-authorisation request.

The three main funding types

• Prosthetic/Orthotic Benefit: a set annual amount your specific plan allocates for devices
• PMB: a legally mandated minimum level of cover for certain conditions, funded separately from your day-to-day benefits
• Ex gratia: an additional, discretionary payment some schemes will consider on compassionate grounds, on request and with motivation

We handle the paperwork and motivation letters for all three where applicable.

We'll explore additional routes with you, including:

• PMB top-up claims
• Ex gratia applications
• Payment plans
• Discussing options with your employer if the injury was work-related

Yes.

• If your amputation or injury resulted from a motor vehicle accident, you may be able to claim through the RAF.
• If it was a workplace injury, COIDA (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases) may apply.

We can guide you through what's needed and, where relevant, liaise directly with these bodies on your behalf.

You can still access care. This may include treatment through the public healthcare system, direct payment arrangements with our practice, or referral pathways depending on the cause of your condition.

Speak to us and we'll talk through what's realistic for your budget.

This varies by scheme and funder — medical aid PMB claims are typically faster than RAF or COIDA claims, which can take several months.

We start the process as early as possible and follow up on your behalf.

Devices are typically replaced every 3–5 years depending on wear, growth, weight changes, and how active you are, though sockets and liners often need earlier adjustment or replacement as your residual limb shape changes.

• Mechanical components are simpler and more affordable
• Hydraulic components offer smoother movement
• Microprocessor-controlled knees and ankles adjust automatically to your gait and terrain, at a higher cost

We'll recommend the right fit for your funding, lifestyle, and activity level.

Many of our devices and components are water-resistant or fully waterproof, and activity-specific prostheses are available for sport and swimming.

We'll discuss options suited to your lifestyle.

This depends on your level of amputation, general health, and rehabilitation. Many of our patients return to walking confidently and even competitive sport.

We'll set realistic goals together during your rehabilitation.

Phantom limb sensations and pain are common after amputation. A well-fitted, properly aligned prosthesis can help, and we can also refer you to pain management or rehabilitation specialists if needed.

Heat, humidity, and dust can affect socket fit and skin comfort, especially with sweating.

We select liners and materials suited to South African conditions and will advise on skin care and maintenance.

It depends on your condition, activity level, and how precisely the device needs to fit.

We'll assess and recommend the most appropriate and cost-effective option.

This ranges from a few weeks for temporary support to lifelong use for chronic conditions.

We'll give you a clear expectation based on your diagnosis.

Yes, growing children typically need more frequent reviews and adjustments or replacements.

We build growth checks into their follow-up schedule.

We'll give you specific care instructions at fitting.

In general, avoid harsh chemicals, dry sockets and liners thoroughly, and inspect regularly for wear.

Typically every few months initially, then at longer intervals once your device has stabilised.

We'll set a follow-up schedule tailored to you.

Let us know your location and we’ll advise on the best way to manage your servicing, whether through scheduled visits at the practice, a call-out to you if you’re unable to come to the practice, or remote guidance where appropriate.

Many of our patients qualify for additional government support.

We can point you toward the right forms and, where needed, provide supporting documentation.

If your injury was work-related, COIDA rehabilitation benefits may support your return to work.

We can assist with the required assessments and reports.