Prosthetics

A. There are shower prostheses but safety is always the biggest issue. Most amputees may use their device to help them get situated on a shower seat or get into the tub but will take it off once situated. Most standard prosthetic devices do have components that may 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.

A. You must have a prescription from a physician in order to get prosthesis. Most physicians need to have seen you in the past 6 months before they will write a prescription. We are able to work with you and your physician to request a prescription if you have seen them recently.

A. 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 their 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 many 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.

A. 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.

A. 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.

A. 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 an 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 and usually not recommended for legal purposes.

A. 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.