A prosthesis is a tool designed for increasing your level of activity and mobility, especially for individuals with amputated limbs. This new part of your body is essential to you as it enhances your independence, and you should take good care of it to keep it in working condition.

With time, you get dependent on your protese. Just like any other machine, it needs maintenance and care. The following guidelines will help you care for your prosthesis and ensure it remains usable for a more extended period.

Donning

Donning is merely putting on your prosthesis. Ask your prosthetist to show you the best donning technique for your prosthesis. They also give a particular schedule for the maximum time to use this new limb, depending on your condition. The time increases as you get more used to the gadget.

You should know the right technique for donning to eliminate problems that would arise, such as folding of the skin, which can lead to skin damage. The schedule is also essential as it allows your skin to get used to the prosthesis gradually. Trying to do more than what your schedule indicates can cause skin irritation. You can also wear them with liners like pull socks or powder.

Cleaning the Foam Socket Insert

The foam socket insert is where your residual limb rests on the prosthesis. It is made of foam to pad the residual limb and to enhance comfort. The foam socket insert should be cleaned by rubbing alcohol on it every few days or as instructed by your prosthetist. It should not be soaked or dunked in soapy water or any cleaning agent.

Protecting the Prosthetic Skin

The prosthetic skin is the outer cover of your prosthesis. It should not be stored in moist places or near moisture. In case it comes into contact with water, it should be dried using a towel. Also, like the foam socket insert, the skin should not be dunked or soaked in water. It can be cleaned by wiping with gentle soap and water of rubbing alcohol. Many prosthetic skins absorb ink; thus, it should be kept far from ink.

Caring for the Prosthetic Foot

Just like any part of your prosthesis, you should keep the prosthetic foot away from contact with water. If it gets wet, you should remove the foot shell and dry it. If sand gets in, the foot shell needs to be removed and cleaned.

To enjoy using your prosthesis and get the best out of it, you should give it the best care and maintenance.…