If you've lost part of a lower limb, a prosthetic can help you regain mobility and give you greater independence. Although practical, a prosthetic takes some getting used to. Balance is one point many new users struggle with. Discover how you can improve your balance—and regain your confidence in the process—below.

3 Tips for Improving Balance With Prosthetics

1. Balance Exercises

Simple exercises can help train your body to balance better on a prosthesis. For example, many people unconsciously shift all of their weight to their "good" leg. However, even weight-bearing is essential to good balance. 

When you're doing still-standing tasks, like brushing your teeth or washing dishes, position yourself so that your weight is evenly distributed. Once this becomes easier, move on to balance exercises that require motion, like kicking a ball with alternating feet. 

2. Strengthening Exercises

Strong legs will make it easier to balance on your prosthesis. Try partial squats, in which you hold onto a sturdy counter or piece of furniture, and squat as if you're going to sit in a tall chair. Once this becomes easy, move on to a wall squat, standing with your back against the wall and sinking down until you're "sitting" in an invisible chair. You can also try a one-legged squat or single-leg dead lift to gain leg muscle while also improving core strength.

3. Coordination Exercises

Mobility exercises will help enhance coordination, making balancing easier. The "clock" is one great example. Balance on your prosthetic leg and, keeping your torso straight, point your arms as if they were a clock. Start with your arms straight overhead at 12 o'clock, then go to 3 o'clock, and so on, until you've completed a full circle. To take it to the next level, try completing the clock on an unstable surface.

If you need a new prosthetic, check out National Prosthetics & Orthotics of Cincinnati, OH. They provide quality devices from reputable manufacturers, and their skilled staff is expertly trained in helping customers find the right prosthetic with the perfect fit. They are licensed by the Ohio State Board of Prosthetics and Orthotics and work directly with many local hospitals and veteran's organizations. Visit their website to view their services and call (859) 442-0400 with questions.