New Life Brace and Limb, Houston Orthotics and Prosthetics
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Corporate Office250 Blossom St., Ste 200
Webster, Texas 77598 281-316-5805 Office 281-316-5970 Fax News and EventsSocial Media |
Frequently Asked Questions1. Q: How soon will I be able to use my prosthesis?
A: It depends on how long the wound healing takes. With a well healed wound and no post-operative complications, temporary prostheses can be fitted after four to five weeks. 2. Q: Will it hurt to walk on my prosthesis? A: You should not experience any pain when walking on your prosthesis. However, it takes some time to get accustomed to wearing an artificial limb. Each new socket may feel different to the previous one for a period of time while you adjust to the new fit. 3. Q: Who is part of a rehabilitation team? A: The multidisciplinary team consists of a rehabilitation specialist, prosthetist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and a nurse. Other specialist may be consulted if necessary. 4. Q: When do I get my definitive prosthesis? A: Your definitive prosthesis is prescribed by the rehabilitation specialist once the volume of your residual limb has stabilized and initial gait training with your temporary prosthesis has been successful. It normally takes s between three and six months before this occurs. 5. Q: How will my prosthesis stay on? A: There are numerous ways of suspending your prosthesis such as straps, suction or pin connections. Your prosthetist will discuss the most appropriate type of suspension with you. 6. Q: Is it normal to have discolored skin after I take my prosthesis off? A: Yes. It is very common to find redness on parts of your residual limb due to increased blood circulation, however if the redness does not disappear after 15 to 20 minutes, discontinue wearing the prosthesis and contact your prosthetist. 7. Q: How long can I wear my prosthesis at a time? A: There are no specific time restrictions on wearing an artificial limb as long as it is comfortable and is not causing any skin or tissue abrasions. 8. Q: What type of shoes can I wear with my prosthesis? A: Most types of shoes are suitable, however it is important to keep a few things in mind when choosing the right footwear such as the weight of the shoe, whether or not the soles are non-slip and also if the heel heights are the same to avoid misalignment. 9. Q: Is it normal to experience phantom sensation and what can I do about it? A: It is very common to experience phantom sensations in body parts that have been amputated, however if the sensation is painful you should contact your doctor to discuss treatment options. 10. Q: Do I always have to wear stump socks? A: Unless you are using a silicone or urethane liner, it is absolutely necessary to wear at least one stump sock between your skin and the liner because it reduces friction and avoids skin breakdowns. A second sock should be worn on the outside of the liner to make donning and doffing easier. 11. Q: My prosthesis seems loose, what can I do? A: Minor adjustments can be achieved by wearing additional or thicker stump socks. If the problems persist or reoccur after a few days, please contact your prosthetist. 12. Q: How often does my prosthesis have to be replaced? A: Generally, if the volume and shape of the residual limb are stable, the prosthesis should be replaced every 2 to 3 years. The very first definitive prosthesis however often requires replacement after 9 to 12 months due to significant volume and shape changes of the residual limb. 13. Q: How often should I see my prosthetist after my prosthesis has been delivered? A: Unless some of the components used in your prosthesis have certain maintenance requirements you should expect to see your prosthetist at least every six months to ensure that the fit is still comfortable and the components remain functional and safe. 14. Q: Can I have a shower with my prosthesis? A: Generally not. There are specially designed prostheses for showering and swimming so please contact your prosthetist to talk about the options. 15. Q: What is the funding situation like? A: Generally, most private insurance companies will pay for your prosthesis and Medicare will pay for 80% of the prosthesis. To discuss other prosthetic funding options, please contact us. 16.Q: Can I still participate in sport? A: Yes, most people can resume their normal sports activities; however, there are specially designed prostheses that are often required for some sports such as swimming or running. |