The science of prosthetics has come a long way from the days of wooden legs and metal hooks. Nowadays prosthetics are not merely cosmetic; with modern technology, artificial limbs can work as functional body parts, allowing the user to live a normal or even enhanced life. When a recent amputee gets a Prosthetic Hand in Columbus OH, there is always an adjustment period to get through before the new limb feels completely natural. The following is some information for new amputees.
A prosthetic is most often introduced while the patient is still in the hospital after amputation surgery. A prosthetist will visit the patient to determine what type of prosthesis is appropriate for the patient’s condition and lifestyle. The prosthetist will need to measure the stump and the opposite limb and make a mold of the stump in order to fashion the socket. Once the prosthesis is attached to the socket, it will need to be aligned.
It will take a little time before the patient can begin practicing. The patient’s healing process and comfort level will determine how soon he or she can get to work on rehabilitation. Some patients are ready to start as early as ten days after surgery while others need more time for recovery. An occupational or physical therapist typically serves as the prosthetics trainer, and the rehabilitation program usually lasts from six months to one year.
Many patients experience difficulties adjusting to the prosthetic during the first year. The shape of the residual limb is likely to change over time, necessitating changes to the prosthetic as well. Both pain in the stump and phantom pain may last for a long time after the amputation. However, most patients are able to get back to a normal level of functioning within a few months.
It’s important to care for both the prosthetic and the residual limb. The prosthetic should be removed every night, and the stump should be cleaned and moisturized. Wrapping the stump in a bandage at night will help to minimize swelling. The socket should be cleaned regularly with soap and water, and the prosthetic should be checked once a year.
Under normal conditions, a Prosthetic Hand in Columbus OH should last up to three years. Contact Capital Prosthetic & Orthotic Center Inc to learn more about living with a prosthesis.
