Category: Blog

Post-Amputation Guide: How to Care For Your Wounds – What to Know

While the loss of a limb can be physically and emotionally challenging, many people who have undergone amputation are still able to live healthy and active lives. Recuperation and rehabilitation will follow faster if the patient is armed with proper self-care information. 

Below are essential tips on how to best care for the wound after operation:

Post-Amputation Wound Care

The first and most critical step towards a patient’s recovery is caring for the injury and the residual limb. Any surgical wound, such as amputation, is at risk of becoming infected. This is because of the presence of germs and other bacteria that can enter the wound site, which can lead to other complications. Your injury and how it heals will depend on the amputation location. Keep in mind that the speed in which a wound heals varies among patients. It also depends on several factors, such as the amputation’s location and the limb’s condition during surgery. 

While at the hospital, pay attention as to how your doctors and nurses care for your wound. They will also give you special instructions before your discharge so that you’ll be able to care for yourself once you leave. Most amputees are inserted with a drainage tube to remove fluids after the surgery, which you will need to drain throughout the day. You’ll also need to change the gauze dressings regularly. If the amputation causes skeletal injuries to the residual limb, surgeons will use pins for bone alignment, and these devices will need to be sterilized as well. 

Remember to wash and sanitize your hands before handling the injured area. When cleaning, use a mild soap and water and never use alcohol-based agents. You can dab with a sterile gauze pad or a soft cloth but never scrub the wound. Be careful when washing the limb and prevent it from getting soaked. After cleaning, make sure that the area is completely dry because dampness is a breeding ground for bacteria. Never shave around the site and always check for ingrown hairs. 

Preparing for Prosthetics

As your healing progresses, you’ll need to schedule a follow-up session with your doctor so that they can remove the sutures and examine the progress of your skin. To help your limb better adjust to tolerance and pressure, do mild exercise, and gently massage the area every day. Wearing compression stockings or bands also helps prevent swelling. If you want to wear prosthetics, you will undergo a series of fittings and physical therapy. 

Take Note of Red Flags

Infections after amputation are severe and can even be life-threatening. Always check your skin for any swelling and tearing. Call your doctor immediately if you notice the following:

    • The residual limb is getting redder
    • The bleeding from the wound
    • The intense, sharp pains that don’t respond with medication
    • The wound is spreading and getting larger
    • The skin is warmer or colder to the touch than usual
    • The thick brownish or grey discharge

Undergoing an amputation is both life-changing and overwhelming. Don’t stress and allow yourself time to get used to your new routine and resume your daily activities. Having the right mindset and proper self-care is the key to a more comfortable and faster recovery.

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

3 Tips for Amputee Rider’s to Get Back on the Bike – What to Know

Your motorcycle adventures don’t need to end with a leg amputation. On the other hand, although many riders have lost a limb, they can still hop right on their motorcycles can go for a ride. It’s a matter of making modifications to your motorcycle so it can comfortably adjust to your needs.

The first step is to consult with a local bike shop that specializes in custom bikes. Discuss your specific needs, abilities, and other physical concerns. Because of the limb loss, an amputee rider will use controls on a motorcycle differently than in the past In this article, we will share common bike customizations amputee riders can make to help them get back on the road. Below are some common modifications to consider:

1. Gear shifter
The gear shifter on a standard bike is operated by the left foot with a lift and push of the toes. Riders with below-knee (BK) prostheses can address this issue by adding a heel extension so that they can change gears by both pushing down the heel and toe. Some motorcycles, such as the Harley-Davidson, already offer this setting on their cruiser models. In some cases, riders with left leg prostheses can choose to move the gear shifter to the right side for more convenience.

A more recent alternative is the Kliktronic electronic shifter system. It is a gear changer that has a convenient push-button gear on the left handlebar. The entire kit is removable and can be transferred to another bike.

2. Brake
On a standard motorcycle, the rear wheel brake is operated by a toe lever for the right foot. For right leg amputees, they can either modify the right brake pedal to fit their prostheses or move the brake system entirely to the left side. They can also mount an additional hand brake lever on the handlebar. Newer bikes, such as those manufactured by BMW already come with an anti-lock brake system that seamlessly connects the front and rear brakes.

3. Above-knee challenges
For riders with above-knee (AK) prostheses, they face these two challenges: how to keep the bike upright when stopped, and how to operate the side stand. To address these concerns, some riders choose a prosthetic knee that is stable in an extended position and that connects the side stand to a hand lever extension below the tank. Some AK riders opt to ride a trike instead. It’s not the same as a bike, but sidecars give more stability while providing the riders freedom of movement.

Getting yourself and your motorcycle ready after a limb loss could be quite challenging, but it is certainly not an impossibility. With a few drawings, your trusted bike builder will be able to give recommendations and make adjustments for your motorcycle. It takes a great deal of mental and physical preparation, but with regular practice, you will be able to experience the wonderful thrill of being on the road again!

If you need help in choosing the best prosthesis for your biking adventures, get in touch with us and see our range of products. Our team will be happy to assist you and connect you with our distributors worldwide.

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions for this winter, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

4 Useful Tips for Walking with Prosthetic Legs during Winter – What to Know

Navigating in temperate climates with prosthetic legs can already be a challenge for many, but it can be a slippery slope once winter hits the season. It can pose a threat to amputees that do not know how to handle taking a stroll out with a white blanket of snow outside, which is why we’re here to help stay steady and take the first step with ease. 

Various modern technologies are fortunately making winter easier for those using prosthetics from below the knee. With the tried and true tips below, you can get a grip and be one step closer to skiing, skating, or even snowboarding on ice once you get the hang of it!

Tip #1: Always Tread Carefully

Taking extreme caution is the name of the game when dealing with a cold environment and icy sidewalks, so be sure to tread carefully. Look ahead and watch out for any slippery hazards such as a slick, icy patch, or large snowbank. Don’t hesitate to take the time by avoiding these threatening situations as it will save you from trouble in the long run.

Don’t forget to leverage railings or handholds every time the opportunity arises as it will give you a better sense of grip as you traverse the winter wonderland. Stroll within your first few times, ensuring that you distribute your weight as evenly as possible. Of course, you’ll learn how to cope with winter the more you practice, allowing you to adjust to different types of snow after a while.

Tip #2: Choose the Right Boots

You can kick off a good start in winter by choosing the right boots to wear. With that in mind, you must pick a pair that values function over style as wearing kicks that have poor performance will only land you in trouble. With that in mind, the best pair is any winter footwear that enables you to get a good grip on your surroundings.

Rubber soles are an excellent choice, which gives you the option of buying shoes with built-in traction or strap-on grips such as Yaktrax. 

Tip #3: Always Stay Warm

Your footwear plays a significant role in keeping you comfortable during colder months, but maintaining warmth beyond your bottom knee goes a long way in preserving your energy. If you leave any part of your limbs exposed to the cold, you risk experiencing pain, which can compromise your abilities and functionality for the day. 

Tip #4: Consider Getting a Cane

Acquiring a cane may sometimes be hurtful to your pride, but there’s nothing more dangerous than letting pride win while you take the fall. With that in mind, getting a cane for additional support can make a world of difference as it can supplement your grip for winter. 

Winter may be a wonderland for many, but for amputees, it can pose a dangerous risk if you’re not careful. With that in mind, being aware of your surroundings and considering other factors that can lead you to threatening situations is necessary for your safety. For that reason, the tips above should give you a better grip of the season and help you make the first step to mastering the inclement weather.

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions for this winter, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

Our Guide to Different Running Feet Types for Your Prosthetics

Sports offer people from all walks of life the chance to enjoy physical stimulation, excitement, and the thrill of competition. Not only does it hone your body to its healthiest state, but it keeps the mind active and in high spirits as a result of the endorphin-inducing activity. 

When it comes to running, wearing the right gear is crucial if you want to improve your performance. This applies to amputees as various sports-specific prosthetics are available at the market, all of which have different uses that cater to diverse running styles. 

With that in mind, persons with amputations will need the right prosthetic component as an integral part of their athletic experience. After all, amputees also need to have the proper equipment to participate in any sport they choose thoroughly. To that end, here are the different running feet styles you can choose from depending on your needs: 

Sprinting Feet

Sprinting requires a prosthetic that is designed to be stiffer compared to long-distance running feet. This is because a more rigid design allows the individual to run more efficiently by having a quicker energy return and propulsion. 

Long-Distance Running Feet

As the moniker suggests, long-distance running feet allows individuals to run for three miles (five kilometres) or beyond. Unlike the “J” design of sprinting feet, long-distance running feet will curve more similarly to the letter “C.” 

This design can foster energy that releases more slowly at a longer time span, which is opposite from the quick bursts from sprinting feet. 

Limb Length Discrepancy

Prosthetic running feet use plenty of energy using compression, which stores the power, and release, which talks about energy return. With that in mind, running using prosthetics can shorten the sides up to two inches, which can make for an awkward feeling as you run. 

To offset this problem, prosthetists tend to align your running leg by adding one to two inches to your prosthetic side to make you taller.

Foot Whip

The inward rotation of the foot when running is called a foot whip, which is caused by weak hip flexors and adductors. Through proper exercise and stretching, you can quickly strengthen this issue and ensure proper alignment. In prosthetics, foot whips happen due to poor suspension and improper prosthetic knee rotation. 

Technology today expands the functionality of prosthetic feet, allowing amputees to improve their physical health and invest in sports with a wide array of prosthetic running feet to choose from. Various models serve different purposes – from running, walking, dancing, cycling, golfing, swimming, and even snow skiing. 

This allows amputees to maximize their energy as modern designs can store and return some of the energy generated during running. To that end, there is no single type of running foot that is perfect for every kind of amputee. However, knowing your options will help you choose the best one that suits your needs. 

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

Grooming, Bathing, & Safety Tips for the Disabled – What to Know

Maintaining proper personal hygiene is crucial to your health, which is why hair care, nail care, foot care, genital care, and dental care are all basic aspects that should be cleaned on a regular basis. 

While these are straightforward personal care activities most tend to take for granted, people suffering from disabilities may struggle to keep good sanitation without having the proper support.  To that end, we’re here to give you a list of safety tips that can help provide assistance and make your bathing experience as stress-free as it can be. 

Tip #1: Install Grab Bars

Having grab bars in your bathroom can do wonders in adding an extra layer of security and accessibility for people with disabilities. Something as simple as stepping out of the bath can be dangerous, which is why grab bars are crucial as it provides additional support when getting in and out of the bath. The best part is that grab bars enable you to exercise more independence as it enables you to have more control over your movements. 

Tip #2: Install Slip-Resistant Flooring

Installing slip-resistant flooring can be a life-saver as it will significantly reduce your chances of slipping and acquiring injuries. You can have it for both the bathtub and shower too, as these two are the most hazardous area in your bathroom. 

With slip-resistant flooring, you can ensure a safe environment, which allows you to have more freedom to walk out and about in your own bathroom.

Tip #3: Install Raised Toilet Seats

Squatting down to sit on a toilet can be troublesome for people with disabilities. For that reason, having a raised toilet seat can ease the experience and make it more convenient for people to sit down and get back up using less effort. To that end, you can have a professional raise the seat by up to three to six inches. 

Tip #4: Install Tension Poles

For those who are looking for an alternative to grab bars, tension poles are just as effective as you can install them near tubs or showers. Similar to grab bars, tension poles provide people with extra support when moving in and out of the shower. 

Tip #5: Install Roll-In Showers

Taking showers can be a daunting ordeal for people in a wheelchair, which is why roll-in showers can significantly make lives easier as it is specifically designed for those in a wheelchair. Keep in mind that roll-in showers must meet the standard of the American Disabilities Association, which should have a dimension of 60×30. 

For people with disabilities, simple everyday tasks such as washing and grooming can be a challenging ordeal. It demands movements from the wrist, hands, arms, and muscles that most people tend to overlook. With that in mind, personal hygiene can cost people their independence without the proper tips and equipment to assist them. 

Learn more about our prosthesis safety and solutions from Lindhe Xtend. Feel free to get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

Important Pointers to Remember for Prosthetics-Wearer to Have a Normal Life

Second chances like prosthetics are always beautiful. They remind us that we are fortunate because we are still alive and still have the opportunity to be with our loved ones. Moreover, prosthetics give us the power to perform normal activities as much as possible. That is why it is of utmost importance that we take good care of our prosthesis to prevent permanent problems.
If we don’t, we will suffer secondary conditions related to the loss of the limb, which causes pain and significant discomfort. It is necessary to ensure the prevention of complications by taking good care of the residual limb, the prosthesis, and overall health to ward secondary conditions off.

These are essential pointers to keep in mind:

Closely monitor the condition of the residual limb.

It’s hard to do that because the prosthesis conceals it. This is when the services of the experts come in. They will check if the limb gets twice-a-day washing to ensure its cleanliness and to guarantee the prevention of skin irritation. They will carefully look if there are skin sores or blisters that the prosthesis and skin rubbing are causing. They will also check if the prosthesis fits well or whether or not it’s causing discomfort.

An ill-fitting prosthesis can cause secondary pain that the wearer does not deserve. That’s why they give further advice on how to thoroughly take care of the prosthesis, socks, and liners. The experts will also advise to wear shoes to maintain alignment, or not to wear wet liners, or how to keep the prosthesis dry, and many more. It’s essential that you tell the truth during these encounters. After all, overall health can never be achieved through lies.

Don’t wear the prosthesis for too long if you’re a new amputee.

That’s because you’re still healing. Healing is a process that takes at least two months before doctors can give you clearance to do so. Wearing the prosthesis right after that and for an extended period is a different process that the body and the mind need to get used to. If it’s forced, something is bound to break—the residual limb, the prosthesis, or the will to be a functional human being.

Be physically and mentally active.

Even without wearing the prosthesis, it’s essential to remain active both in mind and in the body. Work out the arm and back muscles, as well as the stomach, and pelvic muscles. Wearing prosthesis requires the heart to work harder. It’s imperative to be engaged in activities that encourage proper blood circulation. Doing so decreases the chances of fatigue and allows the wearer to endure longer and walk farther with the prosthesis.

More Things to Remember

Wearing prosthetics is necessary for amputees; otherwise, complications will arise, such as obesity, which opens the door for Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Wheelchairs are, of course, conventional alternatives, but they help the amputee develop shoulder tendonitis and arthritis. Dependent positioning can cause chronic lower leg oedema, as well as venous stasis ulcers. Moreover, little use of intact limb causes muscle atrophy. Sitting develops extreme pain down the hip and knee, which make life more unbearable.

The prosthesis can bring long-term physical benefits to the wearer. But the decision to wear it is unique for the amputee and must be appropriately weighed.

Learn more about our prosthesis solutions on our product page. Feel free to get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

For Lower-Limb Amputees: How to Prevent and Handle Falls

If you are a lower-extremity amputee, taking care of yourself is essential, including preventing yourself from falling. It’s inevitable that you might get the chance of falling, so it is also important to know what to do after. It’s not a question of possibility, but when it is more likely to happen. 

Below are some safety measures for the lower-limb amputees. Here’s how to prevent and handles falls.

How to prevent falls

Cliche as it may seem, but prevention is better than cure. It’s best to check your environment, whether it’s your home, work, or any other places that you frequently pass by. Make sure these areas or spaces are free from potential trip hazards. Below are some of the things to watch out for:

    • Uneven Floor: Make sure to check small discrepancies in the floors. An example of this is the transition between tile and carpet or exposed wires. 
    • Household Pets: Be wary of these fluffy creatures at home. Chances are they might be snooping around, without you knowing it.
  • Throw Rugs: How many people have fallen on the floor due to scattered rugs? Make sure rugs and other clothing pieces aren’t spread on the floor.

What to consider when going down

As a lower-limb amputee, it may be such a struggle for you to go down. You are at risk of getting out of balanced. Chances are, you might end up with a bad fall. Yes, there is a good way and a bad way to fall. You should be mindful of these two so that in case you fall, you can act on it right away. Here’s the difference:

    • Bad Fall: The bad way is to tense up and go down stiff like aboard. The truth is, it’s not easy to relax when you see impending doom.
  • Good Fall: The good way is to remain flexible, by bending at the joints and trying to protect vulnerable parts of your body. For instance, your arms can serve as the bumper, leaving your head and hips to suffer less impact during a fall.

What to do after falling

No matter how much you try to take extra care, it’s still inevitable that you’ll fall. It’s a good thing if you have someone nearby who can quickly assist you. However, if you’ve dislocated a joint, improper help may even worsen the situation. Below are the right steps to take after falling:

    • Take a deep breath and wait a minute. 
    • If someone is waiting to help you, ask them if they see anything out of the ordinary. Check for any wound or bleeding. 
    • Roll onto your stomach, bring your feet and knees up beneath your torso, and then rise with support from the person nearby. 

If alone, it’s better to crawl to a nearby steady surface to sit on. Work your way into the seat and perform a further self-assessment.

At this point, you may probably have an idea about how to deal with falling. Preventing it from happening is the way to go. However, it helps to know how to get up after you fall. Consider all the simple steps mentioned above, and you’ll be on the right track.

Learn more about our prosthesis solutions on our product page. Feel free to get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

Lower-Limb Prosthesis: When Can You Finally Have A Prothesis?

Wearing a prosthesis after an amputation is a viable option for every limb-loss patient. Wearing one depends on several factors, such as the type of disease you have or your body condition. Some may choose to wear a prosthesis to assist them in their living, while others may choose otherwise. Occasionally, some may use other alternatives until they can get their prosthesis.

The question is, when can you finally have a prosthesis? There are several factors to consider and fulfil before you can finally start wearing your prosthesis. We’ll discuss the main ingredients to success in the following section. Keep on reading to learn more.

Why do people use means other than the prosthesis?

If you have a lower-limb loss, wearing a prosthesis is your best option. However, most people wearing a prosthesis occasionally use a wheelchair, crutches, canes, or walkers. These devices can help when:

    • Your prosthesis is being repaired.
    • You are waiting for a new prosthesis.
    • You are recuperating from skin breakdown.
    • You have been fatigued from using your prosthesis.
    • You are experiencing balance or coordination problems.
    • Safety is a concern.

When can you finally have a prosthesis?

It’s worth knowing that you need a team of surgeons, nurses, therapists, social workers, and a prosthetist to work together for your surgery, rehabilitation, and prosthetic care. Before you get into the actual wearing of a prosthesis, you should have achieved the following main ingredients for success.

    • Successful Surgery: This entails a surgery that leaves a well-healed, well-shaped, and well-padded limb. The limb should have the best length for the type of prosthesis you will use. 
    • Physical Therapy: You should have an appropriate amount of physical therapy. The therapy should be able to keep your joints flexible, strengthen your remaining limb, teach you how to carry out activities of daily living and train you in using your prosthesis.
    • Prosthetic Care: A certified prosthetist is essential for your prosthetic care. They should be experienced in working with older amputees and can fit you with a lightweight limb. They offer components that will help you walk safely and comfortably.
    • Healthy Diet: A healthful diet should give you the needed nutrients for your body and the strength needed to work hard for recovery. 
      • Health Care: Other appropriate care of any other health problems should not be undermined and provided to you. 
    • Pain control: Pain management helps you deal with any pain during and after the surgery.

All these ingredients are essential for the overall success of your recovery and readiness for a prosthesis. Any missing ingredient may not make you a suitable candidate for a prosthesis. This holistic approach – from the surgery itself to physical therapy down to proper healthcare – is paramount to the overall equation.

At this point, you now have an idea as to what the whole process entails before you can finally wear a prosthesis. Do understand that a prosthesis is designed to assist you in living a normal life. Consider all the valuable information mentioned above and expect to undergo all the processes before finally wearing a prosthesis. 

Learn more about our prosthesis solutions on our product page. Feel free to get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

What to Expect When Getting Fitted For a Prosthesis

Even if an amputation causes the loss of your body parts, life doesn’t end there. A prothesis exists as a replacement for a lost body part. With a prosthesis set for you to use, a new life awaits.

The prosthesis fitting and use can be a tricky period. Many amputees are eager to start the fitting process and use their new prosthesis immediately. However, the fitting process has two phases: the temporary or preparatory prosthesis and the final or definitive prosthesis. Along with these phases are multiple considerations that you should keep in mind.

To keep you guided, here’s what to expect about fitting and using your prosthesis.

​Temporary or Preparatory Prosthesis

The fitting for the new amputee starts when: (1) Swelling in the residual limb is under control, and (2) the suture line has healed, which typically takes four to six weeks after surgery.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Your physician will prescribe a prosthesis once the limb has healed. Your prosthetist and insurance company (or other payers) will determine the time for a new prosthesis.
  • Your prosthetist will examine and measure your residual limb. Along with this is setting your rehabilitation goals and the expectations you have for everyday life as a prosthetic user. Your prosthesis will take into consideration your lifestyle and will create a prosthesis that is fitting for your lifestyle and daily needs.
  • The structure of prosthesis for upper or lower extremity includes: a socket that fits over the residual limb, a strap or harness to aid in suspension, a sleeve or liner that helps you put on the socket, and various components including pylons, rotators, manual and electronic joints (hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist), and a foot, hand or other terminal device.
  • The socket is the most critical element in prosthetic design. It is where the prosthesis and the body connect. How the socket fits will affect how well you rehabilitate and recover.

Fitting the Temporary Socket

The next step in the process is creating a temporary socket. This applies to whether your prosthetist chooses traditional casting or scanning with Insignia. New amputees are expected to wear the temporary prosthesis for a few months as the residual limb continues to reduce in size and mature. On the other hand, people who have worn a prosthesis have a much shorter stage in the fitting process (typically for a few days to a few weeks).

Here’s what to expect:

  • Your prosthetist will create test sockets to see how your limbs contact with them.
  • Other components comprising your prosthesis will be added to the temporary socket soon after. They’ll be added as you can start to stand and walk or use your arm and hand. The temporary prosthesis does not usually have a cosmetic covering since adjustments have to be made continually as the residual limb decreases in size.
  • Part of your recovery and rehabilitation process is engaging in physical therapy during and after the fitting process. Some people will also need to have occupational therapy. Your physical and occupational therapists will design rehabilitation plans that suit your lifestyle goals.

Final or Definitive Prosthesis

The last part of the process is the final or definitive prosthesis. Your prosthetist will decide when it’s time to cast the final or definitive prosthesis. New amputees are more likely to use the final prosthesis several months after surgery. The prosthetist needs to make sure that the size and shape of the residual limb have finally stabilized. Experienced prosthetic users will have their casting for the definitive prosthesis occur quickly.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Your clinician will create a final custom socket and attach all other components of the prosthesis to it. Also, there will be options for a cosmetic covering. Prosthesis creation and fitting will require several visits and can take a few weeks to complete.
  • The terms “final” or “definitive” prosthesis are not necessarily absolute. This means that no prosthetic leg or arm is going to last forever. A prosthesis can last anywhere from two to five years, depending on daily usage and activity level. In some cases, this mechanical device needs to be repaired. At times, only single components ought to be replaced rather than creating an entirely new prosthesis.

We hope we have shed some light on what to expect about using your prosthesis, whether it’s the temporary one or the final product. When you know what to expect, the entire process will be much easier than you’d expect.

Learn more about our prosthesis solutions on our product page. Feel free to get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

What You Should Know About Partial-Foot and Toe Amputees

Amputation may mean the loss of a part of your foot or some of your toes. However, it doesn’t mean that you lose the ability to live your life to the fullest. All it takes is considering its impact on your life, submitting to full recovery and rehabilitation, and relying on prosthetics to assist you in your life. For all you know, you can quickly bounce back to living your life soon after the surgery. 

Here’s a guide to understanding what you can expect as a new partial-foot or toe amputee.

 

Partial-Foot Amputation

If you are a partial-foot amputee, below are some of the things to expect:

Amputation Considerations: The initial process is your surgeon determining how much of your foot should be removed. The process includes how much of the bone can still be preserved while still providing a cushion for prosthetics. Also, how the remaining muscle, skin, and nerves affect the quality of life and how balance and gait can be preserved when walking. Ultimately, this will result in better balance or more comfortable prosthetic options after the surgery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: After the surgery, the recovery process and rehabilitation will be set in place. First, you will have regular appointments with your doctor to change the dressings and monitor your healing progress. Second, you will be given medications for the pain and to fight infection. Once the wound has healed, the rehabilitation program will start. 

In other words, rehab is designed to help you adjust to a prosthesis and learn how to get around when not wearing one. First, you will start with a temporary prosthesis, before using a permanent prosthetic when the residual limb heals (usually within six months to a year). Second, you’ll have to push forward to walk without support. Before you know it, you will be able to resume normal daily activities such as walking, driving, and wearing conventional shoes with your prosthetic.

Partial-Foot Prosthetics and Shoes: When it comes to partial-foot prosthetics and shoes, they are usually custom-made. The goal is to fit your residual foot and provide you with the support lost from amputation. 

One, you need shoe inserts or custom shoes. A partial-foot insert is a rigid footplate for a standard shoe with raised areas to fill in space where your amputation occurred. Custom shoes are made to provide the same function and additional support for your balance and motion. Second, you need custom-moulded foot prosthesis. This has been designed to replace the missing area of your foot. These prostheses include contoured arch supports and carbon fibre keels to provide weight-bearing and natural motion.

 

Toe Amputation

On the other hand, if you had a toe amputation, below are some important considerations:

Toes’ Effect on Balance: Your toes provide balance and support when walking. Chances are, losing one or more toes can impact your balance. Missing any of the three middle toes can significantly affect your walking.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: After surgery, the pain will significantly improve after a week. As for the swelling, it can take about a month for it to subside. That said, you may need to wear a cast or special shoes for about two weeks. During the whole process, you need to follow your doctor’s advice related to your bandages and care of the surgery area. Soon enough, you will begin to walk again and may notice an affected sense of balance, but it will improve in due time. 

Toe Prosthetics: You may be required to use toe prosthetics if your balance remains an issue after rehabilitation. When it comes to a cosmetic replacement for your toe, there are options of prostheses available in the market. It can be made as rigid as required to give you additional support and balance while walking.

 

Final Words

We hope this has shed light on what it takes to live after a partial-foot or toe amputation. You can expect its impact on the quality of your life. However, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice and keep up with the recovery and rehabilitation process. You don’t have to worry about prosthetics as they are custom-made and can help you live normally. 

Learn more about our prosthesis solutions on our product page. Feel free to get in touch with us today to see how we can help!