Post-Operative Care & Maintenance of Your Prosthesis
Thursday, December 21st, 2023 | amputation, artificial leg, lower-limb prosthetic, Prosthetics, Prosthetics Technology | No Comments
Premier Surgical Prosthetic Center in Knoxville is committed to not only providing you with the best prosthetic solutions but also ensuring that you are fully equipped to care for your residual limb post-surgery. Undergoing an amputation surgery is a significant step towards regaining mobility and improving your quality of life. However, the journey doesn’t end with surgery; proper post-operative care and maintenance of your prosthesis are crucial for optimal functioning and longevity. Here’s what you need to know.
Post-Operative Care
- Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions:
Post-surgery, it is vital to follow the recovery plan outlined by your surgeon. This may include rest, wound care, and specific exercises. Adhering to these instructions is essential for proper healing and to prevent complications.
- Wound Care:
Keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection. Regularly inspect your surgical site for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. Any concerns should be promptly addressed by your healthcare provider.
- Pain Management:
Some discomfort is normal after surgery. Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication. It’s important to take these as directed and communicate with your doctor about any pain you experience.
- Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy is often a key part of recovery. It helps to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility, ensuring you can use your prosthetic effectively.
Prosthetic Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning:
Your prosthetic needs regular cleaning to function properly and to maintain hygiene. Use a mild soap and water to clean the gel liner, sleeve and other soft goods. Spot clean your prosthesis with a washcloth and warm soapy water. Make sure to thoroughly dry everything before donning to prevent skin irritation.
- Wear Schedule:
Initially, your prosthetist will provide a wear schedule to gradually acclimate your body to the prosthetic. It’s important to stick to this schedule to avoid overuse injuries and skin breakdown.
- Skin Care:
The skin in contact with your prosthetic needs special attention. Regularly inspect for any signs of irritation or pressure sores. Use recommended skin products to keep the skin healthy.
- Prosthetic Fit:
Your body may change over time, affecting the fit of your prosthesis. Regular appointments with your prosthetist are essential to ensure the prosthesis continues to fit properly. Any discomfort should be addressed as it may indicate a need for adjustments.
- Routine Check-ups:
Regular check-ups with your prosthetist are crucial for maintaining the functionality of your prosthesis. These appointments are opportunities to make necessary adjustments, repairs, and to discuss any concerns.
- Staying Active:
Engaging in physical activities suitable for your level of mobility is important. It not only improves your physical health but also enhances your prosthetic functionality.
At Premier Surgical Prosthetic Center, we are dedicated to your journey every step of the way. From the moment you begin considering an amputation to the post-operative care and maintenance, our team of experts is here to support and guide you. Your success and comfort are our top priorities.Prosthetic consultations at Premier Surgical Prosthetic in Knoxville are free. Call (865) 474-7096 to schedule an appointment or visit us online to schedule an appointment. Together, we can ensure that your journey with your new prosthetic is as smooth and successful as possible.