When choosing a prosthetic, cost is often one of the biggest concerns. It’s not just about the price tag—it’s about understanding what you’re paying for, what kind of support you’ll receive, and how that investment affects your daily life. The cost difference between below-knee (transtibial) and above-knee (transfemoral) prosthetics is real, but knowing why one costs more than the other can help you make an informed decision.
At Robobionics, we work with users across India who ask this question every day. So in this guide, we’ll break it down clearly and simply. From parts and technology to fitting and long-term care, here’s everything you need to know about how the costs of below-knee and above-knee prosthetics compare—and what those numbers actually mean in real life.
The Core Components That Affect Cost
Every prosthetic limb—whether above or below the knee—has a few essential parts. These include the socket, the pylon, the foot, and sometimes, the knee. Each component serves a unique purpose, and their quality plays a major role in the final cost.
The Role of the Socket in Pricing
The socket is the part of the prosthetic that connects directly to the body. It’s custom-made to fit your residual limb and is often one of the most important components. A well-made socket distributes weight evenly, prevents skin damage, and improves comfort during long hours of wear.
For both transtibial and transfemoral users, socket design is equally important, but the challenge of creating a socket increases when the amputation is above the knee. There’s less surface area for the prosthetist to work with, and more muscle movement to consider, which can raise the cost. A transfemoral socket must provide security and comfort while dealing with more complex motion at the hip.
In contrast, a transtibial socket is usually easier to fit and adjust. There’s more space below the knee to spread pressure evenly, and the limb shape tends to be more stable over time. As a result, transtibial sockets tend to cost slightly less. However, the material quality and level of customization still influence the price, regardless of amputation level.
Why Prosthetic Knees Add Cost
The biggest cost difference between below-knee and above-knee prosthetics comes from one thing: the knee joint. Transtibial users don’t need a prosthetic knee because their natural knee is still intact. This simplifies the design and lowers the overall cost.
Transfemoral users, on the other hand, require a mechanical or electronic knee. These knee joints can be basic and mechanical or advanced and computer-controlled. The more features a prosthetic knee offers—such as automatic resistance adjustment, stumble recovery, or walking pattern recognition—the more expensive it becomes.
Microprocessor knees, which are highly advanced, can significantly improve stability and mobility. They’re a smart investment for many, especially for those who want to stay active or who walk long distances. But they can also double or triple the cost of the prosthetic, which is something every user needs to factor into their decision.
The Cost of the Prosthetic Foot
The foot is another component that adds to the total cost. High-quality feet are designed to absorb shock, return energy, and mimic natural walking. Some even allow ankle movement for better stability on uneven surfaces.
Both transtibial and transfemoral users need a prosthetic foot, but the performance demands can be different. Transtibial users rely more on the foot for shock absorption and propulsion since they still have their natural knee to guide movement. Transfemoral users rely on the foot in combination with a prosthetic knee, which means both components must work well together.
Foot cost varies based on material, mobility features, and durability. While some basic feet are affordable, performance feet can raise the overall prosthetic cost. The good news is that at Robobionics, we help users select the best possible foot within their budget and activity level, without sacrificing function.
Cost Differences During the Fitting Process
Getting a prosthetic is not a one-time purchase. It’s a process that involves evaluation, customization, training, and sometimes, several rounds of adjustment. This journey is important to understand, especially when budgeting for the right solution.
Evaluation and Initial Assessment
Before anything is built, a detailed assessment is done. This includes reviewing the condition of the residual limb, your overall health, and your personal goals. At Robobionics, this step is done with care and precision to make sure the right type of prosthetic is chosen.
For both transtibial and transfemoral users, this assessment is essential. However, for above-knee users, there’s often more to evaluate—especially muscle strength, hip control, and the ability to manage a mechanical knee. This can add time and sometimes cost to the process, as more planning is required for a transfemoral prosthetic.
In some cases, diagnostic fittings are done to test alignment and comfort before the final socket is made. These trials help fine-tune the fit and avoid future problems. More sessions may be needed for transfemoral users to ensure knee function is working smoothly, which adds to the total cost.
Socket Fabrication and Adjustments
Once the initial measurements are taken, the socket is created. Each socket is custom-made using digital scans or molds. Materials used can vary—from simple plastics to advanced carbon-fiber composites—and they all affect cost.
Socket fabrication for transtibial users is usually faster and simpler. The limb shape is more uniform, and fewer adjustments are often needed once the first fit is completed. With a transfemoral socket, it’s more complex. The shape of the limb changes more often, and comfort must be balanced with mobility at the hip. These factors make transfemoral socket design more time-consuming and expensive.
Even after the socket is made, fine-tuning is often required. This includes reshaping, adding liners, or improving suspension systems. At Robobionics, we offer ongoing support for these changes, as comfort is key to long-term success. These follow-ups are included in our service packages to help reduce future costs.
Fitting the Complete Prosthetic
Once all components are ready, the full prosthetic is assembled. This is when everything—from socket to foot or knee—is aligned perfectly to match your walking pattern. This stage requires technical skill and close observation from your prosthetist.
For transtibial prosthetics, alignment is usually simpler. Since the knee is natural, the focus is mostly on foot position and socket comfort. It takes fewer sessions to achieve a good fit. For transfemoral prosthetics, alignment must include knee timing, swing control, and weight distribution—all of which are more complex.
The more advanced the prosthetic, the more time is needed to teach users how to move correctly. This step includes gait training and may require extra appointments with a physiotherapist. All these added layers of support are part of what makes transfemoral prosthetics more expensive overall.
Maintenance and Long-Term Cost Considerations
A prosthetic is not a one-time purchase—it’s a long-term partnership. Over time, parts wear down, your body changes, and adjustments are needed. Knowing what to expect in terms of ongoing care and replacement costs helps you plan better.
Regular Check-Ups and Adjustments
Routine follow-ups are a normal part of prosthetic care. These visits help adjust alignment, check the fit of the socket, and look for signs of wear in the components. At Robobionics, we recommend check-ups every few months, especially in the first year.
For transtibial users, adjustments are usually simpler. Most changes involve the socket or foot, and they don’t take much time or money. With transfemoral prosthetics, small changes in the limb or walking pattern can affect how the knee functions. That means more frequent tuning and more advanced tools for assessment.
This doesn’t mean one option is better than the other—it just means transfemoral users should expect to be more involved in maintenance. Having access to local service centers and trained professionals, like those in the Robobionics network, can make this process much easier and more affordable.
Component Replacement Over Time
Every part of the prosthetic has a life span. Feet may need to be replaced every few years, sockets may need to be remade as your limb changes, and electronic knees have wear-and-tear cycles that vary depending on usage.
Transtibial prosthetics usually have fewer parts to replace. The foot and socket take the most wear, but since the knee is not artificial, there’s one less major component to worry about. This keeps long-term costs lower, especially for users who are moderately active.
For transfemoral users, the knee joint is a big factor in future costs. Advanced knees can last several years, but eventually, they may need service or replacement. It’s important to budget for this when making your initial choice, especially if you choose a premium knee system.
Warranty, Service Plans, and Support
When comparing costs, don’t just look at the device—look at what comes with it. At Robobionics, we include service plans, warranty coverage, and local support in our packages. This makes it easier to get quick repairs, socket changes, and training when you need it.
Transtibial users may need fewer services over time, but still benefit from ongoing socket care. Transfemoral users may need more frequent support due to the added complexity of the knee joint. That’s why we provide proactive reminders, easy scheduling, and tele-rehab options to keep your prosthetic working at its best.
The total cost over five years can look very different depending on how well your prosthetic is maintained. Choosing a service partner that offers full lifecycle support—like Robobionics—helps you save money and avoid delays when issues come up.
Comparing Financing Options and Insurance Coverage
Understanding how to pay for a prosthetic is just as important as understanding how it works. Many users worry about how they will afford the right prosthetic, especially when comparing below-knee and above-knee options. The good news is that there are more options today than ever before to help make quality prosthetics more accessible and affordable.
Financing Solutions Tailored for Every Budget
At Robobionics, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality mobility solutions—regardless of their financial background. That’s why we work with multiple financing partners to offer easy and flexible payment options. These plans allow users to spread out their prosthetic costs over time, making the upfront expense more manageable.
For below-knee prosthetics, monthly installments are typically lower due to the overall lower cost of the device. This gives many users the ability to begin their journey quickly, without waiting for large funds to be available. Above-knee prosthetics, which include more advanced components like a prosthetic knee, may have a higher monthly cost, but with long-term plans and low-interest options, they can still be accessible.
We guide every user through this process personally. Our team explains every cost transparently and helps you choose the best plan based on your situation. You’ll always know what you’re paying for, when you’re paying it, and how each part of the process adds value to your mobility.
What to Know About Insurance Coverage
In India, prosthetic coverage through health insurance can be limited or vary widely depending on the provider. While some private insurance plans may cover part of the cost, especially for lower-limb prosthetics, many do not offer complete reimbursement. This creates a lot of confusion for users who are trying to plan their finances.
At Robobionics, we help you check your insurance documents, talk to your provider, and prepare the necessary paperwork to claim whatever coverage you’re eligible for. In some cases, hospital-based rehabilitation plans or post-surgery care policies may include partial support for prosthetic fittings or related therapy sessions.
For government-supported patients or those eligible for state-based disability schemes, we also provide guidance on applications, referrals, and documentation. We believe financial limitations should never come in the way of a person’s ability to walk, and we take every step to bridge that gap wherever possible.
Social Programs and CSR Support
Through our CSR-driven outreach, Robobionics also partners with NGOs, rehabilitation centres, and community health programs to support individuals who may not have access to private insurance or personal funds. In these programs, qualified users may receive subsidized or sponsored prosthetics, depending on their need and the availability of resources.
These programs apply to both transtibial and transfemoral prosthetic users, with priority given to those who show a strong desire to regain independence and participate in rehabilitation. Every case is evaluated individually, and we work closely with trusted partners to ensure fair and impactful distribution.
Whether you’re looking for standard financing, insurance-backed assistance, or a sponsorship through a CSR initiative, Robobionics is ready to help you explore all available options. We walk with you through every step—financially and physically.
Final Thoughts on Cost vs. Value
When it comes to prosthetics, cost is not just about numbers. It’s about what you get, how it helps you move, and how it fits into your daily life. A below-knee prosthetic will generally cost less, but an above-knee prosthetic offers advanced features that support people with greater needs after amputation.
Both types can provide independence, mobility, and comfort—but choosing the right one depends on your goals, your body, and your support system.
At Robobionics, we don’t just deliver a prosthetic—we deliver a partnership. From the first evaluation to lifelong maintenance, we’re here to make sure your investment brings the best possible return in mobility, comfort, and peace of mind.
Book a free consultation or demo with Robobionics today and get expert help in finding a prosthetic that works for your life—and your budget.