Dear Sir, - On reading the recent letter from "Colleen on Crutches", I can assure her that the best possible solution for all her problems is an artificial limb. Monopedes eventually experience all the difficulties she is finding and I have so myself. An artificial leg has its disadvantages, but taken on the whole it is better than struggling about on crutches. By this I do not mean that crutches should be dispensed with. Far from it; no one minus one leg can ever do that. At certain times they are infinitely better than false legs.
An artificial leg will overcame the problems of appearance will give you freedom to carry things, overcome self-consciousness in conversation and in public. The one exception to constant use of a wooden leg is for evening wear. It is occasionally a thrill to use a single crutch to match the dress and, and with a high-heeled shoe on the remaining leg, is very attractive.
However, "Colleen on Crutches," if the remain of your leg is long enough, you will be able to get along easily and naturally without the aid of a stick - in which case I would suggest wearing the false leg for all occasions.
There is usually no absolute need to use a stick, though it helps a lot when starting to use a wooden leg. One tip: Do not let the knee joint be too loose, as the result when walking is of a horse pawing the ground. Keep the knee with a restricted movement. Sticks will be unnecessary, and both hands are free. Do not be discouraged at first.
I have worn a wooden leg for ten years. My greatest trouble is climbing stairs. My references to wooden legs is not meant literally. I doubt if I could manage with the old heavy, actually wood ones. I use a very light metal one; and my advice is to buy the best you can possibly afford, as it is going to be your companion and support for life, and cheap legs are not too comfortable.
Best of luck on "wooden" legs from one already on one.
Yours truly,
Walking On Two.