Patient
Instruction
The orthosis/prosthesis you have received may be the
first experience you will have ever had with such a medical
device. It is extremely important that you follow the
specific instructions given to you by the medical professional
that is working with you, as well as following the guidelines
below.
New Prosthetic/Orthotic Device Wearing Schedule
DO NOT use your orthosis/prosthesis all day on the
first day. Unless you are instructed otherwise by
your Physician, begin by utilizing a "wear schedule" similar
to as follows:
Day 1:
1-2 hours in the AM; 1-2 hours in the PM
Day 2:
2-3 hours in the AM; 2-3 hours in the PM
Day 3:
3-4 hours in the AM; 3-4 hours in the PM
Day 4:
4-5 hours in the AM; 4-5 hours in the PM
Day 5: Wear as able
This is ONLY an example. Use common sense when wearing
your device, and increase the frequency and duration
of use only as tolerable.
We anticipate that things may change during this break-in
period. If at any point during the acclimation process,
a question or a problem develops, CONTACT THIS OFFICE
IMMEDIATELY. If need be, stop using the device until
the problem is resolved. (The only silly question is
the one you do not ask. Big problems are often little
problems left unattended.) Most questions can be answered
over the phone, but if it is necessary, we will schedule
you for an appointment to address any questions or problems,
which may arise.
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An Amputee’s Guide
There are many factors or reasons why one may become
an amputee. Statistically speaking, amputations are a
result of, 70% vascular disease, 23% trauma, 4% cancer,
and 3% due to congenital limb deficiences. Of these reasons
for amputations, over 50% of the amputees have sustained
a below the knee (trans-tibial) amputation, over 30%
have had an amputation above the knee (trans-femoral)
and the remaining 20% occurs at higher levels of the
body (hip and upper extremity amputations).
Download pdf
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Antonio, age 23, a bilateral
lower extremity amputee, receives a new above
knee and a below knee prosthesis. He walks with
no assistive devices and returns to the clinic
at C.R.I.M.A.L. Mexico to replace worn out prostheses. |
Skin Care for the Amputee
The
skin is the body's first line of defense against infection
and disease. Proper care of your skin and residual limb
will prevent skin breakdown thereby reducing the chance
of infection and promoting a normal, active life style.
The residual limb is particularly susceptible to fungal
and bacterial growth since it is confined in an airless
socket throughout the day. Because air does not circulate
properly around the residual limb, accumulated heat and
trapped perspiration create an environment conducive
to infection.
Download pdf |
