five dollars, and in many cases not to exceed three or four dollars. When the amputation is above the knee, it is often necessary that the leg be lengthened both above and below the knee-joint. This involves more labor and consequently greater expense, but in no case will the charge exceed five dollars.
For a very young child we would make the artificial foot one or two sizes larger than the natural one; in a year or so the natural foot will reach the size of the artificial, and some months, perhaps years, will elapse before the natural foot will be perceptibly larger than the artificial. This method keeps the feet nearer the same size a longer time than would be the case if the artificial foot were made the same size as the natural foot in the first place. When it is necessary to increase the size of the foot it can be easily and inexpensively done.
When children are deprived of these useful appendages, solely from fear or apprehension that they may be outgrown, a lasting injustice is done them. There is great danger of deformity and disease from the prolonged use of crutches, particularly at a tender and susceptible age; and the most natural, easy, graceful walkers on artificial legs are those who commence the use of them in youth; the habit becomes thoroughly formed, and the continued use of them from childhood develops and strengthens the muscles and joints in a more effectual manner than can be accomplished by any any other process or treatment.
Weight of Artificial Limbs
It is not possible to reduce the weight of artificial legs below a certain point without sacrificing strength and good wearing qualities. The leg we construct weighs from two to five and one-half pounds, but in some special cases where extreme strength is required this may be exceeded. Much
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