How to Care for Your Prosthesis

A prosthesis is an expensive and valuable item, and proper care will extend its life considerably. The type of care will depend largely on what kind of prosthesis you are using.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Prosthesis
• Electric Arm

1. Make sure you receive care instructions when you are fitted for your prosthesis.

2. Clarify any instructions you are unsure of, or that sound too vague.

3. Have a contact name who you can call with questions that may come up.

4. Find out what materials your prosthesis is made with. Learn how it is made. If possible, see if you can watch the manufacturing process. This will give you a better idea of what you are using, and how to take care of it.

5. Decide how much maintenance you want to contend with. An electric arm, for example, is more complex and requires more maintenance than a body-powered device.

6. Follow directions. Some prostheses, for example, must stay dry, and shouldn't be worn during sweaty workouts or while swimming.

7. Wear it properly. If it doesn't feel right, let your prosthetist know; something may be broken or torn.

8. Keep your prosthesis in a safe and secure place when not in use.

Tips & Warnings

• Properly cared for, an artificial limb should last you a long time. Exactly how long depends largely on the type of device you are using.

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[ashleeve]

on 6/21/2008 I only know this in theory, not by experience. I recently graduated from a prosthetics program. I learned that using vacuum assist suction suspension helps to maintain stump volume. http://www.ottobockus.com/PRODUCTS/PATIENT_COMFORT/harmony.asp

on 8/8/2006 My experience with any pain associated with wearing my prosthesis' (double below knee amputee) is due to shrinkage of the stump and additional socks are required. I wash the silicone when I take a bath. They cushion my movements getting into the tub and then I wash them before anything else.