Meet Matt the Premier Prosthetic Assistant
Wednesday, July 20th, 2022 | amputation, artificial leg, Prosthetics | No Comments
Matt Belcher understands first-hand how important it is for a prosthetic leg to fit well.
“It’s an everyday thing. When you’re walking on a prosthesis every day, there’s constant wear and tear and it can be stressful on your body. You want to make sure that it fits right. It’s a big deal,” explains Matt.
As a below-knee amputee and Prosthetic Assistant with Premier Prosthetic Center, Matt is excited to now help other amputees during their prosthetic fabrication and fit process.
Matt’s left leg below the knee was amputated in 2019 as the result of a foot deformity that he’d battled since birth. The Maryville native endured six surgeries on both feet over the years. Growing up, Matt was determined not to let his condition slow him down.
“I was always very active. I was in Boy Scouts and loved hiking, camping, and fishing, but there was a lot of pain,” admits Matt.
Eventually the continuous pain led to the amputation of his left leg. After struggling with an uncomfortable prosthesis, Matt turned to the Premier Prosthetic Center in Knoxville seeking a more comfortable device and fit.
“It was personalized. I liked how Jason and the Premier Prosthetic Center staff spend more time working with patients to really understand and fix their fit problems.”
Matt jumped at the opportunity to become part of the Premier Prosthetic Center’s team. Premier Prosthetist Jason Hayden, CP, says Matt is a great addition.
“He’s a hard worker and wants to learn more about prosthetics. He really knows the challenges our prosthetic patients face,” explains Jason.
Matt is looking forward to getting to know the Center’s patients. He says, “Helping someone learn to walk on his or her new leg is the ultimate reward. Nothing measures up to seeing a patient take their first steps on a prosthesis. It’s very cool!”