Body
The following information will help you to use and take care of your prosthesis.
Donning and Doffing
Before putting on your prosthesis, inspect your limb for redness or abrasions. Each time you remove it, check for excessive redness, irritation, or swelling. Use both sight and touch, especially if you have neuropathy, poor circulation, or diabetes. If redness lasts more than 15–20 minutes, stop using the prosthesis and contact your prosthetist or physician. If you experience pain or discomfort, confirm the prosthesis is properly positioned using landmarks like your kneecap or sit bone. Check that you are wearing the correct number of socks, as sock ply often changes during the first weeks. Consider whether you wore the prosthesis too long.
For gel liners, turn the liner inside out and ensure the bottom is flat before rolling it on. Align pins straight if present, and check seals lay flat. For socks, adjust throughout the day to maintain proper fit—too few socks cause pressure at the bottom, too many create gaps and discoloration. For valves, confirm your limb touches the valve opening fully. Sleeves should contact skin; adjust socks if needed. Belts must be secure and the prosthesis properly rotated.
Wearing Your Prosthesis
Gradually increase wear time over several days to allow your limb to adapt. Avoid strenuous activity during the first week. A sample schedule: Day 1—1 hour; Day 2—2 hours; Day 3—4 hours; Day 4—8 hours; Day 5—full day. Inspect your limb at each break. Do not use the prosthesis independently until cleared by your physician or therapist. Follow safety precautions and use assistive devices as needed. Be cautious of surface changes when walking. Contact your prosthetist if your activity level changes, as this affects alignment and function. Avoid water, high-impact activities, and corrosive chemicals. Always wear shoes with the same heel height as those used during fitting.
Caring for Your Residual Limb
Wash daily with mild soap and water, rinse, and dry thoroughly—preferably at night. Do not soak, shave, or apply lotions unless instructed. If you perspire excessively, remove the prosthesis, dry your limb, and change socks. Stop wearing the prosthesis if you develop abrasions or wounds and report concerns promptly. Weight changes can affect fit; schedule an evaluation if your weight changes.
Caring for Your Prosthesis
Clean the socket interior daily with mild soap and water; do not submerge in water. Wash gel liners nightly per manufacturer instructions and rotate between two liners. Replace liners, socks, and sleeves every 6–12 months. Wash socks daily and ensure they fit snugly without wrinkles. Hand wash suspension sleeves weekly and air dry. Schedule annual checkups for mechanical parts and do not adjust components yourself. Stop using the prosthesis and contact your prosthetist if you hear unusual noises or see black or metallic dust.
For questions or concerns, send a secure message through the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Patient Portal or call 312.238.1000. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
