Dealing with an amputation is a life-altering event that can be overwhelming. As you are adjusting to this major change in your body and the use of a prosthetic, you need to prepare yourself for a long road ahead.
In addition to the recovery process and becoming accustomed to the use of an artificial limb, complications can arise. Take the following, five tips to help you in handling any prosthetic problems that may occur once you have adequately recovered from amputation surgery.
Listen to Your Body
After an amputation, your residual limb is going to undergo changes that involve the skin, muscle, and bone. One of the most common effects will be a reduction in size at the point of amputation. You may see a decrease in the size of the rest of the limb as well as you are no longer able to use it in the same capacity as you did before. Your prosthetic device will help you to do the things that you did before, although you may need to perform them in a new way. As you become accustomed to these changes in your body and your activities, your prosthetic device should not cause you any pain. If you are experiencing pain that is hindering your mobility and comfort, you need to see your prosthetic specialist about adjustments.
Make Sure Your Prosthetic Limb is a Good Fit
Make Sure Your Prosthetic Limb is a Good Fit
In order to be worn regularly and be most effective, your prosthetic device needs to have the proper fit. If it is not staying in place, is rubbing the wrong way, or making you uncomfortable, you need to see your prosthetic specialist. Regular adjustments are common and can head off bigger problems down the line.
Take Care of Necessary Repairs Immediately
Take Care of Necessary Repairs Immediately
It is normal to experience wear and tear with your prosthetic device. If your device becomes damaged in any way, you need to address the issue as soon as possible. Putting off any repairs could make it impossible to use your prosthetic limb. Worse yet, you could injure yourself by using a faulty device. Warranty programs can assist you in covering the costs of repairs. A team of malpractice attorneys like McLaughlin &Lauricella, P.C. may also be able to assist you in receiving adequate compensation for prosthetic costs and more if someone else is at fault for your amputation.
Pay Attention to Your Skin
One of the biggest problems that can affect amputees involves a breakdown of the skin where the prosthetic device is attached. You need to stay on top of good hygiene, regularly cleansing your skin at the point of amputation and the prosthetic device with antibacterial agents. If you have any type of irritation or lesion, you need to see your doctor right away. If you do not resolve the problem, skin damage can become extensive and make it impossible to wear your device.
Consider Additional Surgery to Reshape Your Stump
Consider Additional Surgery to Reshape Your Stump
If your prosthetic device is not fitting comfortably in spite of adjustments or you find yourself suffering from numerous skin problems, there may be an issue with the stump itself. An excess of skin or other tissues could make it difficult to create the proper fit for your prosthetic device. A surgeon may be able to help you by shaping your stump in such a way that you can make the most out of a prosthetic limb.
Problems may arise after amputation, but solutions can always be found. The most important thing you need to do is have patience with yourself and the changes in your body. Adjusting will take time. If you have any concerns with your prosthetic device, be sure to notify the team of health care providers who are involved in your recovery.
Problems may arise after amputation, but solutions can always be found. The most important thing you need to do is have patience with yourself and the changes in your body. Adjusting will take time. If you have any concerns with your prosthetic device, be sure to notify the team of health care providers who are involved in your recovery.
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