Perhaps the greatest challenge faced by an amputee after being fitted for a prosthesis is balancing activity with fit and comfort. At Anew Life, we know personally the challenges a prosthesis creates and how to overcome them. Here are a few tips to help you on your journey to a pain-free active lifestyle.
Managing Fit with Ply Socks
A very painful and poor fitting prosthesis can often be fitted with ply socks. Ply socks are the best way to adjust the fit of your socket. Your prosthetist will instruct you on “Ply Sock Management” for volume control.
Think of ply socks as spacers or fillers that you add or remove to get a comfortable but snug fit. Ply socks come in different thicknesses that are color coded. Color codes are often different for each manufacturer or style of sock. Knit Rite’s cool max coding consists of 1 ply gray, 3 ply green, 5 ply blue and 6 ply red. Ply socks are always placed on the outside of your liner.
Ply socks need to be carefully put on to avoid stretching and thinning out the ply sock. Stretching out the ply sock can cause the fit to be thinner on the end of stump and thicker at the top edge of the prosthetic socket. Also, be sure to wash your ply socks according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Generally, if you need 10-12 plies for a snug but comfortable fit it means that it probably time for a smaller prosthetic socket.
Regular Maintenance
Maintain your weight and exercise. See your prosthetist regularly, at least twice a year, sooner if something doesn’t feel or sound right. Ask questions. Bring shorts to your prosthetist visit and always wear underwear. Wash your sleeve and liner daily. Wear shoes that have similar heel heights.
Talk with your prosthetist about insurance documentation requirements needed from physician for prosthetic examination. Request supplies when needed. Sleeves, Liners and Ply Socks need to be replaced regularly at least once or twice a year.
Schedule your Appointment
Does your artificial limb hurt? Is there pain at bottom front end of limb or the side? Pains, pressure points, red spots that don’t go away or blisters? Rubbing, pinching or burning inside of leg? Is it tight on top or doesn’t touch on bottom? Is your prosthesis too tight like a blood pressure cuff or loose like you fall into it? Do you hear noises like clicks, squeaks or farts? If yes then it is time to call your prosthetist.
Don’t let pain keep you from enjoying your life. Call Anew Life Prosthetics now at 313-870-9610 or fill out the form below to schedule your next appointment!