Do I sleep with my prosthesis on?
No, treat the prosthesis like a pair of shoes, you definitely don't sleep with them on.
Can I shower with my prosthesis?
There are shower prostheses but safety is always the biggest issue. Most amputees may use their device to help get situated on a shower seat or get into the tub but usually take it off once situated. Most standard prosthetic devices do have components that will rust or corrode so it is not advised to expose them to water long term. It may also void any warranty that comes with the components used. Most prostheses are water resistant to low levels like walking in the rain but not water proof like swimming unless designed for that purpose.
How long do I have to wear my shrinker?
This really depends on the individual but on average most amputees find themselves needing to wear the shrinker consistently all day and night unless physician says otherwise (not in the shower of course and always monitoring there skin frequently checking for any possible breakdowns). If patient is wearing the prosthetic device then they should not be wearing the shrinker until they take off prosthesis. Most amputees find themselves using the shrinker for the first year or more post amputation. The residual limb is still undergoing lots of changes and the shrinker aids in keeping the residual limb consistent in size cutting down on the fluxuations the limb undergoes in a day to day period. This makes the prosthetic fitting a more consistent process. Some amputees like to continue wearing the shrinker after the limb has stabilized.
Why don't they add a cosmesis on the preparatory prosthesis?
The preparatory process is such a short span of time and the alignment during Rehab changes as the patient gets stronger and more aggressive. Your Prosthetist and Physical Therapist need to be able to evaluate the alignment and need to make changes to keep up with the patients progress so the cosmesis does get in the way as well as obstructs the view needed to get a good alignment on the device.
How long will do I stay in my Preparatory device?
On average 3 to 6 months or when you reach a 10 to 12 ply fit. The preparatory is used to shape the residual limb as well as strengthen the limb. Usually during this process the limb changes and begins to shrink down in size. The first definitive device is usually a glorified preparatory due to the limb still changing. Most changes occur and level off after the 1-1/2 years.
Can I drive a car with lower limb my prosthesis?
It is highly recommended that if you are dealing with a right limb amputation that you have your automobile modified. Most lower limb amputees add a second gas pedal on the opposite side of the brake by a certified dealer. It is a easy transition and made so you can flip either gas pedal out of the way so others can drive your car. Usually it is done by adding a bracket from the existing gas pedal to the new one added. If you are a bilateral hand controls may be added. Driving a clutch is a tricky and tough thing to do and usually not recommended for legal purposes.
How long does it take to get the prosthesis after the casting?
On average two weeks, more time is spent getting the paperwork straight from the insurance company and getting components in. The process can be faster if needed but that is assuming insurance has met all requirements and prosthesis has been authorized and all components are in house.
On average two weeks, more time is spent getting the paperwork straight from the insurance company and getting components in. The process can be faster if needed but that is assuming insurance has met all requirements and prosthesis has been authorized and all components are in house.