Do’s and Don’ts for Prosthetic Care
Do:
- Clean your prosthetic socket often, especially during the warm weather. This will prevent dried perspiration and dirt from accumulating on the inner surface of your prosthetic. AFTER wiping your prosthetic with a damp cloth, dry it thoroughly BEFORE putting it back on.
- If you start to sweat, remove your liner, dry it and your limb and put the liner back on. An antiperspirant will also help. Excessive sweating can cause your liner to slip which can cause compromised suspension. If your liner slips off it creates airspace which can cause water blisters.
- Make sure your shoe height is correct. If it isn’t, it can put a strain on your limb and the surrounding joints. 
- Have a “leg” bag handy for emergencies. This bag should include limb socks, pull socks/bandages, antibiotic ointment, antihistamine ointment, etc.
- Wear a prosthetic interface that fits your body. You can also improve the fit of your prosthetic in various ways: gel products, a prosthetic sock, by changing your liner or sock to a thicker/thinner model, or by adding/removing lightweight-ply socks. 
Do Not:
- Immerse your prosthetic in fresh/salt water for a long period of time.
- Swim/shower/bathe with your prosthetic on. To be able to do these activities with your prosthetic, talk to your prosthetist about a waterproof prosthetic. 
- Use soap that contains alcohol or unknown chemicals unless you’ve been specifically instructed. Instead, use mild soap and water and let dry.
- Store your prosthesis in a hot environment such as in direct sunlight in a parked car, near an oven or near a radiator. Instead, store it against a wall where it won’t get bumped or knocked over.
About the Author:
Alicia Woodman is No Limbits’ Community Manager. She holds a degree in Communication and Legal Studies from the University of Illinois Springfield and is a former Ms. Wheelchair Illinois USA. Alicia was born with Spina Bifida and a RBKA as of 2020. In her free time, Alicia loves watching the TV show House, shopping and crafting.
Sources:
https://www.amputee-coalition.org/resources/tips-for-taking-care/
Https://amputeestore.com/pages/the-dos-and-donts-of-skin-care-for-amputees
Https://www.cornelloandp.com/blog/artificial-limbs-Massachusetts/new-amputees-and-prosthetic-limbs/
https://prostheticsolutions.com/resources/prosthetic-care/
https://www.reachops.com/caring-for-your-prosthesis/
I watched your show on Shark Tank and checked out your website. I have a suggestion. What about expanding your business into clothing for those with broken limbs such as arms, legs, and feet? I have a crushed heal on my right foot and a fractured fibula on my left foot. I had a friend purchase loose pants for me, but it was difficult to find pants that were wide enough at the bottom since I am wearing two cumbersome boots that go up to my knees. My husband cut the pant legs so they could fit around the boots, but I look frumpy. He also cut some up to the top of the boots, but they are uneven and unprofessional looking. I love wearing jeans, but there is no way to get jeans to fit. Thanks.
I just want pants without a pattern. I am 65-year-old man and don’t to have patterns on my pants. If you don’t, please direct to a site that does!
Thanks
I had a BKA in 2022, since then I only wear dresses that have snaps all the way down the front because it’s the only thing that has worked for me, I look forward to your new products in the future!
I had a BKA in 2022, since then I only wear dresses that have snaps all the way down the front because it’s the only thing that has worked for me, I look forward to your new products in the future!
Hello,
Do you have a size chart for measurements for your jeans, please? I have gone through several different sizes since my amputation on 4t18/2022. Since I am wearing mostly dresses and don’t have any fitted pants now, I am not sure of my size. Thank you for this and for doing what you do!
Best to all,
JJ McCroskey