depends, however, upon the weight and occupation of the wearer. Many legs of other makes which weigh no more than ours require more of an effort to carry and swing them, because the action of the rubber spring in the back part of our leg assists materially in carrying the leg forward while in the act of walking, thus relieving the stump from the effort that would otherwise be required to swing it. We aim to have sufficient weight around the joints to support them securely; at other points, where strength is not required, they are left a mere shell. The weight of an artificial arm is much less, varying from one-half to one and one-half pounds.
Durability of Artificial Limbs
The occupation of the wearer has much to do with the durability of an artificial leg, but more depends upon the care and attention it receives. We know of limbs that have been in constant use for eighteen or twenty years and are undoubtedly good for several more years of good service, and others, equally well made in every way, that because of neglect and abuse have lasted only three or four years. These are the extremes, however. The average durability of an artificial leg we estimate to be from seven to eight years. Artificial arms not being subject to the strain and wear of a leg will last much longer, the average time, we should say, being double that of a leg. It should be borne in mind, however, that they are but a mechanical imitation of Nature and require attention the same as any other piece of mechanism, and that it pays to keep them at all times clean and in good working order, and that the better the care the better and more lasting will be the service.
Note.—While preparing this article Mr. John S. Havens, of
Plainwell, Michigan, called upon us wearing an artificial leg made at
this factory in the spring of 1864, and the leg is still in excellent
condition.
16
