5 Maintenance Tips for Taking Care of a Prosthetic Limb

Your prosthetic limbs need appropriate maintenance for them to continue working well and for you to remain in perfect health. It is advisable to observe proper aeration to keep bacteria away. Prosthetic sockets are prone to sweat, making ventilation a challenge. That way, the chances of infections are high if not properly maintained. Issues that come with possible contamination include skin irritation and discomfort. Failure to act promptly leads to severe skin damages. For a healthy routine, the limbs’ maintenance is critical, and here are commendations to consider.

Avoid Suspending your Leg

As an amputee, suspending your leg increases the risks of swelling, which complicates the situation more. A swollen leg makes it difficult to put the prosthetic limb on. Watch out and avoid any engagements that could cause swelling on your limbs. Do not use hot water when washing your legs, and if you must, do not replace the gadget immediately. If possible, take baths at night when sleeping, as that allows you to keep off the prosthetic until morning. If necessary, put on a shrinker after bathing, especially when sleeping.

Observe Maximum Hygiene

Cleanliness is inevitable if you want your prosthetic limb to remain healthy. It is advisable to wash the limb every day with clean water and soap. Be gentle when cleaning, and avoid using types of soap that contain high contents of chemicals. It is necessary to bathe regularly during hot weather or if you sweat. Rinse the limb properly, and dry it appropriately after every cleaning process to keep off fungal infections.

Working Out is Fundamental

Your limb needs daily exercise to remain healthy and active. Stretching is critical, as it strengthens the muscles and allows the knee and hip to take their appropriate shape. Exercising every day improves your mobility and reduces stress when sleeping as your hip muscles become flexible.

Use Customized Bathroom

An amputee needs extra care when bathing to avoid straining. Customize your bathroom to include features such as a shower chair, support bars, and a less slippery floor, among several others. Place your bathtub on a shower bench, ensuring that it can support your weight. Keep your towel closer to minimize movements in the bathroom. Always dry the limb properly before replacing the prosthetic. The support bars help you to enter and leave the bathroom. They are also critical when sitting and getting up from the bench. Fix them firmly to prevent accidents. It is advisable to test their reliability before relying on them.

A hand-held shower is also an ideal option for amputees since they do not need to bend or move, as they can bathe when seated. Ensure the floor is less slippery by installing rubber mats to prevent accidents. Tiled floors are significantly risky for amputees, especially with water. If bathing is a challenge, it is advisable to seek advice from your expert.

When using a prosthesis, looking for comfort is like a daily procedure, and there are several ways to achieve that. Caring for the limbs is the best way to enjoy comfortable days and sleep well at night. It is a proven way to reduce complications such as fungal and bacterial infections. Proper use of prosthetic limbs reduces stress and eases mobility. Being an amputee does not limit you from handling your daily chores, but observing precaution is paramount.

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