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 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.
How to Proceed in Ordering a Leg
A very common error is prevalent in the minds of many that artificial limbs are kept on hand in full assortments and varieties, and that it is only necessary for a person to call and purchase one and wear it away, the same as you would a pair of boots or shoes. Artificial legs are only made to order, and it is preferable that the patient be present at the factory for a day or two to have the leg fitted and give it a thorough and satisfactory trial. Write to us, stating full particulars of the case—when amputated, whether below or above the knee, length and condition of the stump, etc. Also state the price you wish to pay for a leg, and whether or not it will be practicable for you to come here and have it fitted. If you can come here, name a day that will be most convenient for you to do so, and we will be ready for you. If possible, also specify time of day and by which route you will arrive in Rochester; if you are unable to determine in season to advise us by mail, please do so by telegraph, and we will have some one meet you at the station. A shoe will be wanted here for the artificial foot. Your presence will be required from one to two days, depending upon the difficulty in fitting and the number of orders we have on hand; during this time you will have an opportunity of putting the leg on, and giving it a thorough trial in the rough. After you are satisfied with the test, you may return home and the leg will be completed and forwarded to you in about ten days, or, if you prefer to remain and wear it home, it will be finished in about a week. Excellent hotel accommodations can be obtained for one dollar per day or five dollars per week.
Making Artificial Legs from Measurements
For the benefit of persons who do not care to incur the expense and inconvenience of a journey to the factory, we have perfected a chart for measurements, and directions for taking profiles, plaster of paris moulds, etc., that overcome all the difficulty and expense of a personal visit. To make success doubly sure, when so desired we put the leg up in the rough and forward it for trial; this gives the same opportunity of trying it that would be had here. The leg can then be returned to us with directions as to any changes that may be needed. To be sure, there is some expense for transporting the leg, but it is small compared with the cost of a journey here. A good share of our orders are being filled in this manner, and with unvarying success. Indeed, there need be no fear or hesitancy in sending orders to us for artificial legs to be made from measurements, as we guarantee a fit. Should it prove otherwise, we will make any required alterations without charge.
Warranty
The following is a copy of the warranty given with each leg. The time of the warranty will depend entirely upon the price paid. See prices of the various styles.