Is It Time To Have Your Prosthesis Refitted?
Posted on: 25 October 2022
Losing a limb changes a person's life forever. Most people who have a limb amputated, are born without a limb, or lose a limb due to an accident choose to utilize a prosthetic device to help restore some limb function.
A properly fitted prosthetic device is able to facilitate basic everyday activities painlessly and easily. Unfortunately, many people fail to recognize when it's time to have their prosthetic devices refitted.
Here are three signs that you can watch for to determine when it's time to have your doctor refit your own prosthetic device in the future.
1. Noticeable Wear
The more you utilize your prosthesis on a daily basis, the faster the prosthesis will wear out. A worn or damaged prosthetic device will no longer be able to provide a proper fit.
Take the time to inspect your device often to check for any noticeable wear or damage. If you spot things like cracks, warping, or irregularities within the structure of the prosthesis, you should make an appointment to have your orthopedist repair and refit the device as quickly as possible.
2. Changes in Your Weight
A person's weight can fluctuate over time. For those who rely on a prosthetic device to replace limb function, changes in weight can spell trouble. Any significant increase or decrease in your weight can alter the way your prosthesis fits.
You will probably notice that the socket of your device will begin to feel tighter or looser than it should. Weight changes can also alter the way that you walk, which can have an impact on how well your prosthesis functions.
Be sure to have your device refitted anytime you gain or lose weight to ensure that your prosthesis continues to fit properly.
3. Changes in Your Activity Level
It can take time to adjust to life with a prosthetic device. Many people find that they start to become more active and enjoy participating in more activities as they grow more accustomed to their prosthetic devices over time.
Higher levels of activity can cause the residual limb to expand as a result of increased circulation and pressure. The muscle tone of the residual limb can also change as activity increases.
It's always a good idea to have your prosthesis refitted anytime you increase or decrease your activity levels to ensure a proper fit.
If you don't have your prosthesis refitted regularly, you could damage your residual limb or suffer from skin irritation that leaves you susceptible to infection. Work closely with your doctor to maintain the right fit for your prosthetic device over time.
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