How to Put on Prosthetics Properly
Tuesday, August 15th, 2023 | Prosthetics | No Comments
Prosthetics combine cutting-edge technology with human adaptability to enhance mobility and transform lives. Whether you’re a new amputee or a seasoned prosthesis user, knowing how to properly put on and secure your prosthetic limb is essential for comfort, stability, and overall well-being. In this overview, we’ll be discussing some methods of properly attaching your prosthesis with Hannah Howington, CPO/L, Director of Prosthetics at Premier Surgical Prosthetic Center in Knoxville, TN. As Hannah explains, “Our team of prosthetics experts is dedicated to restoring vitality and mobility for our patients, and we are here to guide each patient every step of the way.”
What are the most common methods of attaching a prosthetic?
Sleeve Suction: A Traditional Approach with Modern Comfort
Sleeve suction is a classic method that involves using a snug, custom-fit silicone or neoprene sleeve to hold the prosthesis in place. This method relies on the principles of atmospheric pressure and airtight sealing to secure the limb. Here’s how to put on a prosthesis using sleeve suction:
1. Prepare the Residual Limb: Make sure your residual limb is clean, dry, and free of any creams or lotions that might interfere with the sleeve’s grip.
2. Roll the Liner: Invert the liner so the gel is on the outside. Start at the bottom of the residual limb and gradually reflect the liner up. Ensure the liner fits snugly but not too tight, as discomfort or circulation issues might arise.
3. Adjust the Fit: If necessary, gently smooth out any wrinkles in the liner to prevent skin irritation. Add ply socks as needed to maintain a snug fit.
4. Don the Prosthesis: Align the prosthesis with the residual limb and gently press the limb into place, ensuring a snug fit and contact at the bottom.
5. Roll the sleeve up: The sleeve should remain attached to the prosthetic socket when not in use. After pressing the limb down into the socket, reflect the sleeve up over the gel liner and onto the thigh. Smooth out the sleeve so there are no wrinkles. The sleeve must seal against either the skin, or the gel of the reflected liner. The sleeve should adhere firmly to the skin, creating a vacuum-like effect that holds the prosthesis in place. The vacuum seal should secure the limb in place, providing stability and support.
While sleeve suction has stood the test of time, advancements in prosthetic technology have introduced more sophisticated suspension methods that may offer enhanced comfort and functionality for some patients.
Vacuum Suspension/Suction: Elevating Prosthetic Comfort and Performance
Vacuum suspension/suction is a state-of-the-art approach that combines advanced materials and engineering to provide a secure and comfortable fit. This method utilizes a vacuum pump to create a controlled suction effect between the residual limb and the socket. Here’s how to properly wear a prosthesis using vacuum suspension/suction:
1. Prepare the Residual Limb: Follow the same steps as you would for sleeve suction to ensure your residual limb is clean and dry.
2. Insert the Liner: A silicone liner is typically worn over the residual limb. Roll the liner onto the limb, ensuring a smooth fit without wrinkles or bunching.
3. Insert the Limb: Gently slide your residual limb into the socket. Secure a seal with either a suspension sleeve or with a seal-in gasket.
4. Activate the Pump: Depending on the system, you might need to activate the pump manually or via a remote control. As you do so, the vacuum pump creates a negative pressure environment, effectively pulling the residual limb into the socket and creating a secure, custom fit. This step finalizes the vacuum seal and ensures a snug fit.
Vacuum suspension/suction offers numerous benefits, including improved comfort, reduced skin irritation, enhanced proprioception, reduced volume fluctuation and increased overall functionality.
Distal Locking: Pin and Lanyard Security
Distal locking involves using a pin or lanyard mechanism to securely attach the prosthesis to the residual limb. This method is commonly used in conjunction with sockets that have a hard, rigid shell. Here’s how to correctly use distal locking:
1. Prepare the Limb: Ensure the residual limb is clean, dry, and free of any obstacles that might interfere with the locking mechanism.
2. Roll on the gel liner: Invert the liner so the gel is on the outside. Start at the bottom of the limb and reflect the liner up over the thigh. Ensure the liner is snug and smooth, without wrinkles.
3. Align the Prosthesis: Position the prosthetic socket over the residual limb, making sure it’s properly aligned.
4. Insert the Pin or Lanyard: If your prosthesis employs a pin-locking mechanism, carefully insert the locking pin into the designated hole on the socket. Ensure that the pin is fully engaged and secured. If your prosthesis employs a lanyard, carefully feed the lanyard through the hole in the socket and secure through chafe on the outside of the socket.
5. Check for Stability: Gently test the stability of the prosthesis. It should feel secure and provide adequate support for your activities.
Distal locking offers a solid and dependable attachment method, particularly for users with active lifestyles or those who prefer a secure connection without relying on suction or vacuum technology.
Determining the best method of prosthetic attachment
According to Hannah, “The best attachment method for each individual patient will be determined by that patient’s specific circumstances, needs, and preferences.” Whether you are using the traditional sleeve suction, vacuum suspension/suction, or distal locking, ensuring a proper fit is paramount for your comfort, stability, and overall quality of life.
At Premier Surgical Prosthetic Center, we work with you to find the most suitable method for your unique situation, giving you the greatest mobility and independence possible. Schedule a free consultation today by phone at (865) 474-7096 or online here. No referral is necessary. We look forward to hearing from you!