Our resource center provides all the information you need to ensure a great experience with Orthotech. If there is something you are having trouble finding, please contact us.
How to put on your AFO:
Apply a sock on the foot needing an AFO.
Loosen the laces or Velcro on shoe.
Sit with knee bent to 90º and use a shoehorn to slide the heel into the shoe to prevent breakdown of the back of the shoe. Make sure foot is all the way in the shoe.
Secure the laces or Velcro on shoe.
Apply tension to the leather and Velcro shin strap and securely fasten.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, an AFO has a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use brace for one hour.
Day 2: Use brace for two hours.
Day 3: Use brace for four hours.
Day 4: Use brace for eight hours.
Continue to use brace as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any discomfort is felt and results in redness, bruising or blistering. Please discontinue the use of the brace until seen by your Orthotist.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
-The best way to clean an AFO is to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
-If AFO has foam padding, it is recommended to clean once a week to prevent sweat, dirt and grime build up. This can also help to eliminate smells.
-If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the
Velcro and remove it.
Precautions:
-Do not over use brace during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation.
-Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the AFO will fit.
-Do NOT ever sleep in the AFO.
How to put on your AFO:
1. Apply a long sock on the foot needing an AFO.
2. Slide foot into brace. Make sure heel is all the way back and foot is fully seated in the brace.
3. Apply tension to the Velcro shin strap and pull for snugness.
A. If brace has a figure 8 strap, make sure Velcro is criss-crossed over the front of the ankle and securely fastened. Ensure the soft pad is securely fastened to strap closest to ankle.
B. If brace has front shell, then apply the front section of the device, making sure it’s sides overlap the back section. Fasten all of the straps to secure the front part of the brace to back.
4. Once all straps are fastened, use a shoehorn to slide the heel into the shoe to prevent breakdown of the back of the shoe.
5. Fasten shoes.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, an AFO has a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use brace for one hour.
Day 2: Use brace for two hours.
Day 3: Use brace for four hours.
Day 4: Use brace for eight hours.
Continue to use brace as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
There may be some slight redness on the instep, under the ball of the foot or the on the sides of the little toe or big toe. If redness doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes, do not put the brace back on. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
Remember that shoes are an integral part to any AFO brace. The shoe becomes an extension of the AFO and provides proper support for the brace.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
-The best way to clean an AFO is to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
-If AFO has foam padding, it is recommended to clean once a week to prevent sweat, dirt and grime build up. This can also help to eliminate smells.
-If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
-If brace doesn’t fit into shoe –
-Check to see if the heel is all the way to the back of the AFO.
-Check if the back of the shoe is crushed, causing the AFO to hang up.
-Check if the insole of the shoe has been removed to accommodate for the AFO.
-Proper footwear should be worn at all times with the brace and on the opposite foot.
Precautions:
-Never wear brace without shoes. It is slick plastic and the risk of falling is high.
-Do not over use brace during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation.
-Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the AFO will fit.
-Do NOT ever sleep in the AFO.
-Be aware that changing shoe styles can affect your standing/walking balance. This may cause you to fall unexpectedly.
How to put on your AFO:
1. Apply a long sock on the foot needing the brace.
2. Loosen the laces/Velcro closures on the brace.
3. Slide foot into the orthosis as if you were putting on a pair of boots.
4. Make sure heel is all the way back and foot is fully seated in the brace.
5. Begin at the foot, secure the laces/Velcro straps followed by the laces/Velcro straps on the shin. Make sure to pull all the Velcro straps snug.
6. Loosen the laces/Velcro on the shoe to allow for the brace to slide easily into the shoe.
A. A shoe horn can be used to ease in this process as well as prevent breakdown of the back of the shoe.
7. Once brace is in the shoe, securely fasten laces/Velcro.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, an AFO has a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use brace for one hour.
Day 2: Use brace for two hours.
Day 3: Use brace for four hours.
Day 4: Use brace for eight hours.
Continue to use brace as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
There may be some slight redness on the instep, across the top of the foot from snugness of the laces, the on the sides of the little toe or big toe. If redness doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes, do not put the brace back on. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
Remember that shoes are an integral part to any AFO brace. The shoe becomes an extension of the AFO and provides proper support for the brace.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
-The best way to clean an AFO is wipe with a damp cloth.
-Shoe fresheners can be used to remove a smell from the brace.
-If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
-If brace doesn’t fit into shoe –
-Check to see if the heel is all the way to the back of the AFO.
-Check if the back of the shoe is crushed, causing the AFO to hang up.
-Check if the insole of the shoe has been removed to accommodate for the AFO.
-Proper footwear should be worn at all times with the brace and on the opposite foot.
Precautions:
-Never wear brace without shoes.
-Do not over use brace during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation.
-Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the AFO will fit.
-Do NOT ever sleep in the AFO.
-Be aware that changing shoe styles can affect your standing/walking balance. This may cause you to fall unexpectedly.
A few things to remember:
– You cannot hurt the helmet. However, you can hurt your child if helmet snaps back on them.
– Practice opening and closing the helmet to get you used to it.
– Your child may scrunch their eyebrows down which makes putting on the helmet difficult.
– Helmet may not look like a circle and this is due to the shape of the child’s head. This is normal. The pads inside the helmet are doing the work to remold your child’s head. There will be a void in padding in some places to push the head to grow towards the open areas to allow for correction.
How to put on your child’s cranial remolding helmet:
1. Place hands on either side of opening and pull open.
2. Try to place ear hole opposite to the opening over ear and align the forehead with the front of helmet. The eyebrows will be covered.
3. The helmet should fit snug but not causing pain.
4. Both ears should be exposed, with the helmet close behind the ears.
5. The occipital role should be placed at the base of the child head. This will stop any spinning that can occur in the helmet.
6. Make sure the helmet looks even from the front. Both side burns should be roughly in the same spot.
7. Do not be afraid to take helmet off and put it on again if something looks weird.
Wearing Schedule:
It is very important to follow the wearing schedule below. This will allow your child to ease in to wearing the helmet. The helmet will eventually be worn for 23 hours and should only be removed for one hour at bath time.
Day Helmet On Helmet Off Nap Night
1 45 mins 30 mins No No
2 1.5 hours 30 mins Yes No
3 3 hours 30 mins Yes Yes
4 6 hours 30 mins Yes Yes
5 23 hours 30 mins Yes Yes
Precautions:
– Helmet should not be worn during bath or pool time. If helmet gets wet, use a dry washcloth to dry. Make sure it is completely dry before placing back on child’s head.
– If child has been given stretching exercises, remove helmet and complete the exercises then put helmet back on. These should be done during the one hour the helmet is off.
– Helmet wearing should be paused if child presents with a cold or a fever or directed by physician. Once cold or fever has cleared, resume wearing the helmet to normal schedule.
– Check your child’s skin each time helmet is removed. There may be some slight redness on face or neck but if redness does not disappear within 30 minutes, keep helmet off until redness clears. If this redness occurs again and does not go away within the 30 minutes discontinue the use of the helmet or if skin breakdown occurs, please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
– Please call your Orthotech office if you have ANY concerns.
– During the first few days of wearing the helmet, excessive sweating is normal. If this occurs remove helmet wipe it out and wipe off your child’s head. Cradle cap may occur as well.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the helmet is to spray 70% rubbing alcohol on the inside and out of helmet and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue. Make sure helmet and child’s head is dry before reapplying helmet.
– Child’s head should be washed daily to decrease the amount of build up that occurs in the helmet.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the helmet, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
How to put on your Cam Walker Boot:
1. Apply a long sock on the foot needing the boot.
2. Loosen all Velcro straps and open foam liner.
3. Sit with knee bent to 90º and slide foot into the foam liner. Make sure heel is all the way back and foot is fully seated in the liner.
4. Close liner around shin and then foot snugly.
5. Begin at the foot, secure the Velcro straps followed by the Velcro straps on the shin. Make sure to pull all the Velcro straps snug.
If Cam Walker is, an Aircast or Bledsoe then add air by using the hand bulb provided to valve until ankle feels a little pressure.
Wearing Schedule:
Depending on the reason for the use of the cam walker boot, the wearing schedule can vary. Follow the doctors wearing guidelines.
If any redness, bruising or blistering occurs and doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes, do not put the brace back on. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an
appointment for an adjustment.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
-The foam liner can be washed by hand in cold water with a mild detergent and allowed to drip dry. The walker can be wiped with a damp cloth.
-If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the
Velcro and remove it.
Precautions:
-Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the boot will fit.
-Do NOT ever sleep in the boot, unless prescribed by doctor.
-Be aware the boot has a sole attached. Be sure to choose a shoe that allows you to feel stable when walking.
How to put on your LSO:
1. Put on a comfortably fitting cotton t-shirt.
2. Loosen all straps.
3. Center the back of the brace on spine so the sides are lined up on your hips.
4. Center the front of brace low on your belly.
5. Attach one side of straps to the front of brace then the other side of straps.
6. Tighten all straps for snugness assuring the label on the front panel is centered on the front of your body.
Wearing Schedule:
This brace is typically worn after surgery and is to be worn per physician’s orders. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any discomfort is felt and results in redness, bruising or blistering.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the LSO is to spot clean or hand wash with the removal of all hard panels.
– DO NOT use direct heat or a dryer to dry brace. This can ruin the brace.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
– If pain or discomfort is experienced, the brace may be too loose, too low or too high and may need to be repositioned.
– If brace is rotating on your body, it may need to be tightened.
– A t-shirt should be worn at ALL times with this brace.
– If there are any other areas of concerns please call your Orthotech office.
How to put on your TLSO:
1.Put on a comfortably fitting cotton t-shirt.
2. Lie on side. Place back piece of brace against the back and slide the sides under the side of body.
3. Make sure waist indentations are in the proper position on waist on both sides.
4. Roll on to back and realign back of brace because it may have shifted during the roll.
5. Apply front part of brace, overlapping the back section.
6. Start in the middle of straps to assure alignment of brace is correct.
7. Tighten all straps to the marks indicated on straps. Snugness of brace is very important to allow for proper healing.
Wearing Schedule:
This brace is to be worn per physician’s orders. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any discomfort is felt and results in redness, bruising or blistering.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the TLSO is to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
– Do not immerse in water. This will ruin the brace and straps.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
– If pain or discomfort is experienced under the arms, brace may be too loose and may need to be repositioned.
– A t-shirt should be worn at ALL times with this brace.
– Soft chairs may be uncomfortable to sit in. Try to sit as much up right as possible. This will decrease pressure felt on chest or stomach from brace.
– If there are any other areas of concerns please call your Orthotech office.
How to put in your shoe inserts:
1. Check if the insole of the shoe has been removed to accommodate for the foot orthotics or shoe inserts.
2. Slide insert into shoe making sure it fits in the shoe all the way to the front and push flat at the heel.
3. Slide foot in to shoe making sure not to crush the back of the shoe.
4. Fasten shoes.
These steps may have already been done in your Orthotech office.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, your inserts have a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use the inserts for one hour.
Day 2: Use the inserts for two hours. One hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon.
Day 3: Use the inserts for four hours. Two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon.
Day 4: Use the inserts for six hours. Three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon.
Day 5: Use the inserts for eight hours. Four hours in the morning and four hours in the afternoon.
Continue to use the inserts as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
There may be some slight redness on the instep, under the ball of the foot or the on the sides of the little toe or big toe. If redness doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes, discontinue the use of the inserts and please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
The importance of good foot wear
– Remember that shoes are an integral part of using your inserts. Never use them without shoes.
– Tennis shoes are the best type of footwear.
– Try to limit the amount of time spend in sandals, slip on shoes and rubber made shoes. These shoes will NOT give your foot the amount of support it needs.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– Shoe inserts are difficult to clean. However, do not immerse in water, as this may harm the inserts.
– Remember to keep inserts away from excessive heat as this may cause damage to the insert.
Trouble Shooting:
– If insert doesn’t fit into shoe –
-Check if the insole of the shoe has been removed to accommodate for the inserts.
-Check if the back of the shoe is crushed, causing the insert to hang up.
Precautions:
-Do not over use the inserts during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation and blisters.
-Be aware if you change shoes, the inserts may not fit.
-Always use your insert with shoes with backs.
How to put on your AFO:
1. Apply a long sock on the foot needing the brace.
2. Point toes and slide foot into the brace from back.
3. Make sure heel is all the way back and foot is fully seated in the brace.
4. Secure Velcro strap just above ankle.
1. If brace has an ankle strap, apply tension to the Velcro strap and pull for snugness.
2. If brace has a figure 8 strap, make sure Velcro is criss-crossed over the front of the ankle and securely fastened. Ensure the soft pad is securely fastened to strap closest to ankle.
5. Once all straps are fastened, use a shoehorn to slide the heel into the shoe to prevent breakdown of the back of the shoe.
6. Fasten shoes.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, an AFO has a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use brace for one hour.
Day 2: Use brace for two hours.
Day 3: Use brace for four hours.
Day 4: Use brace for eight hours.
Continue to use brace as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
There may be some slight redness on the instep, under the ball of the foot or the on the sides of the little toe or big toe. If redness doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes, do not put the brace back on. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
Remember that shoes are an integral part to any AFO brace. The shoe becomes an extension of the AFO and provides proper support for the brace.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean an AFO is to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
– If AFO has foam padding, it is recommended to clean once a week to prevent sweat, dirt and grime build up. This can also help to eliminate smells.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
– If brace doesn’t fit into shoe –
– Check to see if the heel is all the way to the back of the AFO.
– Check if the back of the shoe is crushed, causing the AFO to hang up.
– Check if the insole of the shoe has been removed to accommodate for the AFO.
– Proper footwear should be worn at all times with the brace and on the opposite foot.
Precautions:
– Never wear brace without shoes.
– Do not over use brace during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation.
– Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the AFO will fit.
– Do NOT ever sleep in the AFO.
– Be aware that changing shoe styles can affect your standing/walking balance. This may cause you to fall unexpectedly.
– The best and most intimate fit of this brace is against the skin. However, loose fitting pants can be worn with brace.
How to put on your KAFO:
1. Apply a long sock on the foot needing the KAFO.
2. In a sitting position, position thigh and leg inside of KAFO.
3. Slide foot into brace. Make sure heel is all the way back and foot is fully seated in the brace.
4. Apply tension to the Velcro in instep and shin strap and pull for snugness.
5. Then finish fastening the rest of the straps up the thigh.
6. Once all straps are fastened, use a shoehorn to slide the heel into the shoe to prevent breakdown of the back of the shoe.
7. Fasten shoes.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, a KAFO has a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use brace for one hour.
Day 2: Use brace for two hours.
Day 3: Use brace for four hours.
Day 4: Use brace for eight hours.
Continue to use brace as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any discomfort is felt and results in redness, bruising or blistering. Please discontinue the use of the brace until seen by your Orthotist.
The importance of good foot wear
– Remember that shoes are an integral part of using your KAFO. Never use brace without shoes.
– Tennis shoes are the best type of footwear.
– Always wear socks.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the KAFO is to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
– If KAFO has foam padding, it is recommended to clean once a week to prevent sweat, dirt and grime build up. This can also help to eliminate smells.
– Do not immerse in water. This can harm the metal of the KAFO and cause it to rust and break.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Precautions:
– Do not over use brace during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation.
– Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the KAFO will fit.
– Do NOT ever sleep in the KAFO.
– Keep KAFO away from excessive or direct heat, this may cause the plastic to melt.
The best and most intimate fit of this brace is against the skin. However, loose fitting pants can be worn with brace but it may migrate.
How to put on your KO:
1. In a sitting position align hinges of brace along sides of knee. Be sure to center hinges on the knee cap.
2. Velcro thigh strap and pull for snugness
3. Velcro strap below the knee and pull for snugness.
Wearing Schedule:
There are many indicators for the use of this brace, please contact physician for wearing schedule.
Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any discomfort is felt and results in redness, bruising or blistering. Please discontinue the use of the brace until seen by your Orthotist.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the KO is to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
– Don’t immerse in water.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Precautions:
– Be aware that volume changes in the body can affect how the KO will fit.
– Do NOT ever sleep in the KO.
– Keep KO away from excessive or direct heat. This may cause deformation.
How to put on your LSO:
Depending on the type of LSO, you may have the following types of closures:
– Hook-and-eye
– Velcro overlap
1. Put on a comfortably fitting cotton t-shirt.
2. Loosen all straps.
3. Center brace on body so the sides are lined up on your hips and the stays, if applicable, are on either side of the spine.
1. If your brace has a Hook-and-eye closure, fasten the front of brace, from the bottom up pulling all straps tight for snugness.
2. If your brace has a Velcro overlap closure, make sure front of brace is low on belly and back is centered on the small of your back. Fasten all Velcro straps.
4. Check for snugness on all straps.
Wearing Schedule:
This brace is to be worn per physician’s orders. Please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any discomfort is felt and results in redness, bruising or blistering. Please discontinue the use of the brace until seen by your Orthotist.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the LSO is to spot clean or hand wash with the removal of any added hard panels, if applicable. DO NOT use direct heat or a dryer to dry brace. This can ruin the brace.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
– If pain or discomfort is experienced, the brace may be too loose, too low or too high and may need to be repositioned.
– If brace is rotating on your body, it may need to be tightened.
– A t-shirt should be worn at ALL times with this brace.
– If there are any other areas of concerns please call your Orthotech office.
How to put on your SMOs:
1. Place socks on feet.
2. SMOs may have a left or right foot sticker on the bottom of the device. The sticker indicates the correct foot the device goes on, even if they appear to be wrong.
3. Open brace behind and underneath the foot and then slide foot into brace. Bend knee to 90º to make sure heel is all the way to the back of the SMOs.
4. Pull up on the toes to make sure the heel and the rest of the foot is fully seated in the brace.
5. Apply tension to the Velcro shin straps and pull for snugness. The buckles should be on the outside of the braces.
6. Use a shoehorn if SMOs are difficult to slide into shoe. This will also prevent breakdown of the back of the shoe.
7. Fasten shoes.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, SMOs have a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the brace gradually.
Day 1: Only use the SMOs for one hour.
Day 2: Use the SMOs for two hours. One hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon.
Day 3: Use the SMOs for four hours. Two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon.
Day 4: Use the SMOs for six hours. Three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon.
Day 5: Use the SMOs for eight hours. Four hours in the morning and four hours in the afternoon.
Continue to use the SMOs as prescribed by your Orthotist for full day use.
There may be some slight redness on the instep, under the ball of the foot or the on the sides of the little toe or big toe. If redness doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes, discontinue the use of the SMOs and please contact your Orthotech Orthotist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
If child goes up two shoe sizes, contact your Orthotech Orthotist because the SMOs maybe too small now.
The importance of good foot wear
– Remember that shoes are an integral part of using your SMOs. Never use them without shoes.
– Tennis shoes are the best type of footwear.
– Try to limit the amount of time spend in sandals, slip on shoes and rubber made shoes. These shoes will NOT give your foot the amount of support it needs.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– The best way to clean the SMOs are to spray rubbing alcohol on the inside and out and wipe down with a dry cloth. This will remove any body oils and residue.
– If SMOs have foam padding, it is recommended to clean once a week to prevent sweat, dirt and grime build up. This can also help to eliminate smells.
– If the Velcro is not sticking well on the brace, check for lint build-up on the Velcro and remove it.
Trouble Shooting:
– If brace doesn’t fit into shoe –
– Check to see if the heel is all the way to the back of the SMO.
– Check if the back of the shoe is crushed, causing the SMO to hang up.
– Check if the insole of the shoe has been removed to accommodate for the SMO.
Precautions:
– Never wear brace without shoes. It is slick plastic and the risk of falling is high.
– Do not over use brace during the initial wearing phase. This can cause skin irritation.
– Do NOT ever sleep in the SMOs
Purpose of using socks:
To take up extra space in the prosthesis.
How to put on your socks:
1. Slide sock on over liner.
2. Make sure NO wrinkles are in sock.
3. Wrinkles can cause extra pressure on limb which can cause skin breakdown or irritation.
4. Socks should go past the top of the liner.
Wearing Schedule:
Wear socks as needed. Be careful to not wear too many socks or not enough. Both can cause serious issues.
Sock Ply:
Socks typically come in 1 ply, 3 ply and 5 ply. The amount of ply depends on the amount of space inside the socket.
When to add/subtract socks:
Add a sock if,
a. On the bottom edge of the patella a. The groin area
b. Under the fibula head b. Ischial tuberosity
c. The back of the knee c. The end/bottom of the femur
d. At the femoral condyles d. The front end of the femur
e. The end of the tibia e. The outside of the tibia
f. The front end of the tibia
g. The end of the fibula
1. Feel like the prosthesis is too short
2. Expelling air out of the top of socket
3. The prosthesis “spins” on your residual limb causing your foot to turn excessively inward or outward
Subtract a sock if,
1. Your residual limb throbs, is feeling constricted and choked
2. Uncomfortable pressure at patella tendon and back of knee
3. Uncomfortable pressure on either side of the wide part of the knee
4. Direct pressure from the side of the socket on the fibula head
5. End of the limb is moist, cold and red/purplish in color
6. Feel like the prosthesis is too long
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– Socks are machine washable with a mild detergent and air dry or spin dry in dryer. Do not use heat or socks will shrink.
Things to remember:
– Wear clean socks every day.
– On hot and humid days feel free to put on fresh socks half way through the day.
– Do not wear socks for several days before washing them. It is not good for your skin or the prosthetic socks.
– Be sure to carry extra socks with you daily. Your limb will shrink throughout the day.
How to put on your liner:
1. Turn liner inside out.
2. Place the end of the liner on the end of the limb and roll up leg, remembering to not let air get trapped in liner.
1. Below knee – Liner will pass over knee to mid thigh
2. Above knee – Liner will pass over mid thigh and continue to the groin area.
3. If pin suspension is used, remember to align the pin properly as you roll up the liner.
Wearing Schedule:
Just like a new pair of shoes, a liner has a breaking in period. Use the following wearing guidelines to allow the body to adapt to the use of the liner gradually.
The following guidelines may be altered by your prosthetist. Please check with them for additional wearing schedule restrictions.
If any skin irritation occurs after wearing the liner, please discontinue use of liner and call your Prosthetist.
Step 1: On day 1, wear liner for one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 2.
Step 2: On day 2, wear liner for two hours in the morning and two hours in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 3.
Step 3: On day 3, wear liner for three hours in the morning and three hours in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 4.
Step 4: On day 4, wear liner for four hours in the morning and four hours in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 5.
Step 5: Continue to full day use.
Please contact your Orthotech Prosthetist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any redness that doesn’t disappear within 20 minutes of taking off the liner or if blistering has occurred. Please discontinue the use of the liner until seen by your Prosthetist.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– Wash liner inside out, with the use of a mild, non-allergenic soap and warm water. Do not use bleach, or soaps with perfumes, lotions, or deodorants. Blot dry with a towel and hang to dry overnight.
– After washing liner inside, hang liner right side out to dry on a drying stand. (Fabric side out)
– Be sure to check liner for signs of liner damage, inside and out. If damage is found make an appointment with your prosthetist.
Things to remember:
– Remember to wear shrinker when not wearing the liner.
– Make sure liner is clean and dry and no debris is on the inside of the liner when put on leg.
– If there is, this can cause skin irritation and possibly skin breakdown.
– If the liner doesn’t contact the end of your limb, and there is space or air, this can cause skin breakdown and form suction blisters on the end of the limb.
– Never store liner next to a heater, this may cause liner to melt and deform.
Your prosthesis is designed to fit your residual limb and its unique shape. The prosthesis has not changed but your limb may have undergone physical changes.
If you begin to experience discomfort, check to seeing if you are putting on your prosthesis properly. Is the pin aligned correctly? Is the sock ply correct? Feel free to play around with the sock ply to make you feel comfortable. That means you may need to add or subtract a sock ply or two. Sometimes this is the solution.
However: if you have a suction socket, remember the socket should be directly on the skin with NO sock in between.
WHEN TO GO SEE MY PROSTHETIST?
These are possible reasons but not limited. If you notice anything abnormal, then call your Orthotech Prosthetist to make an appointment.
– If you experience pain, in your limb caused by your prosthesis.
– If prosthesis is uncomfortable and it persists; and changing sock ply combinations doesn’t help.
– If you experience redness that doesn’t go away within 20 minutes or that isn’t normal; or if blisters, welts or any other skin conditions develop. Discontinue use of prosthesis and call your Prosthetist.
Things to ask yourself, if prosthesis feels “weird”?
– Have you recently changed your shoes?
– If the heel is too high then:
– Your prosthesis may push your knee forward causing it to flex or buckle when you step down, which may cause you to fall.
– You may experience feel extra pressure on the front end of your tibia.
– You may experience feel extra pressure on your patella tendon.
– You may feel like you are walking downhill.
– If the heel is too low then:
– You may feel like you are walking uphill.
– Your prosthesis may push your knee backwards, causing it to lock faster and extend the leg when you step down.
– You may feel pressure on the back of your knee with each step.
– You may experience feel extra pressure on your patella tendon.
– Is the end of your limb reddish/purple?
– This can happen if the liner doesn’t contact the end of your limb, and there is space or air, this can cause skin breakdown and form suction blisters on the end of the limb.
– Please discontinue used of liner and prosthesis and call your Orthotech Prosthetist.
– You may be wearing too many sock ply.
– This allows for your limb not to settle into the bottom of the prosthesis and put pressure on areas that can’t take pressure.
– The end of your limb may have shrunk and now there is not good contact with the socket.
– Does the prosthesis feel like it’s moving or twisting on your limb?
– Check your sock ply to see if it’s adequate.
– If it feels like you’re waiting on your prosthesis to catch up or it’s feels “heavier” than normal, check the suspension. Make sure it’s tight enough. Whether liner and pin or belt.
-Is your liner slipping off your limb?
– Your limb may have shrunk, contact your Orthotech Prosthetist.
– You have excessive sweating so your liner won’t stay on. Contact your Orthotech Prosthetist.
Remember to discontinue use of your prosthesis if you hear abnormal sounds and contact your Orthotech Prosthetist. Please DO NOT try to fix your own prosthesis
Shrinkers:
Purpose of using a shrinker:
– To reduce the amount of fluid or edema in the limb
– Provides graduated compression to help maintain shape of limb.
– To help attain a more ideal size and shape so prosthetic fitting is easier.
How to put on your shrinker:
Compressogrip® Elastic White Shrinker
1. Find the middle of the shrinker and place plastic ring there.
2. Pull one end of the shrinker up over the knee to mid thigh, being sure not to move the ring that is in the middle.
3. Push plastic ring to the end of the limb.
4. Pull the rest of the shrinker over the limb until it reaches the other end, at mid thigh.
5. The shrinker will fit very snug.
Juzo® Dynamic Flesh tone Shrinker
1. Use both hands to gather shrinker, like a sock, to the seam on the bottom and stretching it open.
2. With both hands, place shrinker on the end of the limb and slowly guide the shrinker up the limb and over the knee to mid thigh.
3. The shrinker will fit very snug.
Wearing Schedule:
– Wear shrinker at all times, when not wearing liner or prosthesis.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– Shrinker can be hand washed with mild detergent and air-dried.
Things to remember:
– Remember to wear at night.
Your prosthesis is designed to fit your residual limb and its unique shape. The prosthesis has not changed but your limb may have undergone physical changes.
If you begin to experience discomfort, check to seeing if you are putting on your prosthesis properly. Is the pin aligned correctly? Is the sock ply correct? Feel free to play around with the sock ply to make you feel comfortable. That means you may need to add or subtract a sock ply or two. Sometimes this is the solution.
However: if you have a suction socket, remember the socket should be directly on the skin with NO sock in between.
WHEN TO GO SEE MY PROSTHETIST?
These are possible reasons but not limited. If you notice anything abnormal, then call your Orthotech Prosthetist to make an appointment.
– If you experience pain, in your limb caused by your prosthesis.
– If prosthesis is uncomfortable and it persists; and changing sock ply combinations doesn’t help.
– if you experience redness that doesn’t go away within 20 minutes or that isn’t normal; or if blisters, welts or any other skin conditions develop. Discontinue use of prosthesis and call your Prosthetist.
Things to ask yourself, if prosthesis feels “weird”?
– Have you recently changed your shoes?
-If the heel is too high then:
– Your prosthesis may push your prosthetic knee forward causing it to flex or buckle when you step down, which may cause you to fall.
– You may feel like you are walking downhill
– If the heel is too low then:
– You may feel like you are walking uphill
– Your prosthesis may push your prosthetic knee backwards causing it to lock faster and extend the leg when you step down
– You may feel pressure on the top front of your limb, where the socket is catching you.
– Is the end of your limb reddish/purple?
– This can happen if the liner doesn’t contact the end of your limb, and there is space or air, this can cause skin breakdown and form suction blisters on the end of the limb.
– Please discontinue used of liner and prosthesis and call your Orthotech Prosthetist.
-You may be wearing too many sock ply.
– This allows for your limb not to settle into the bottom of the prosthesis and put pressure on areas that can’t take pressure.
– The end of your limb may have shrunk and now there is not good contact with the socket.
– Does the prosthesis feel like it’s moving or twisting on your limb?
– Check your sock ply to see if it’s adequate.
– If it feels like you’re waiting on your prosthesis to catch up or it’s feels “heavier” than normal, check the suspension. Make sure it’s tight enough. Whether liner and pin or belt.
– Is your liner slipping off your limb?
– Your limb may have shrunk, contact your AOrthotech Prosthetist.
– You have excessive sweating so your liner won’t stay on. Contact your Orthotech Prosthetist.
– If you have any issues with your prosthetic knee, please contact your Orthotech Prosthetist.
Remember to discontinue use of your prosthesis if you hear abnormal sounds and contact your Orthotech Prosthetist. Please DO NOT try to fix your own prosthesis.
Purpose of using a shrinker:
– To reduce the amount of fluid or edema in the limb
– Provides graduated compression to help maintain shape of limb.
– To help attain a more ideal size and shape so prosthetic fitting is easier.
How to put on your shrinker:
Compressogrip® Elastic White Shrinker
1. Find the middle of the shrinker and place plastic ring there.
2. Pull one end of the shrinker up over the knee to high thigh being sure not to move the ring that is in the middle.
3. Push plastic ring to the end of the limb.
4. Attach strap around waist securely with the Velcro.
5. Pull the rest of the shrinker over the limb until it reaches the other end, at high thigh/ groin area.
6. The shrinker will fit very snug.
Juzo® Dynamic Flesh tone Shrinker
1. Use both hands to gather shrinker, like a sock, to the seam on the bottom and stretching it open.
2. With both hands, place shrinker on the end of the limb and slowly guide the shrinker up the limb and over the knee to high thigh.
3. Attach strap around waist securely with the Velcro.
4. The shrinker will fit very snug.
Wearing Schedule:
– Wear shrinker at all times, when not wearing liner or prosthesis.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
– Shrinker can be hand washed with mild detergent and air-dried.
Things to remember:
– Remember to wear at night.
– Make sure there are no wrinkles in the shrinker.
After receiving your prosthesis, you’re often in need of prosthetic supplies—including suspension sleeves, liners, socks and/or shrinkers. Please contact our office for help getting everything you need. Our supply coordinator will contact you after delivery of your prosthesis for scheduled supply needs.
We accept most major insurance plans and auto insurance. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We're here to help. The following is a partial list of our accepted insurance plans:
A prosthesis can last anywhere from several months to several years. Many changes occur in the early stages of limb loss, which can require socket changes, liners, or a different device. Once you are comfortable with your device it will only need minor adjustments and repairs and can last an average of 3 years.
Wearing a prosthesis should not hurt! You should not have to get used to the pain! It is important to know that an amputees body will change day to day and over long periods of time. If your prosthesis feels uncomforatable it is time to visit your prosthetist and have adjustments made to make if feel comfortable once again.
Every individual is different, but you should be able to get back to a normal level of functioning within a few months. How well you do depends on your attitude and determination. The first year following an amputation is tough. There will be changes in the shape and size of your residual limb. A lot of effort is needed to recondition your muscles and find your “new normal”.
There is no doubt that learning to use your prosthesis is a process. It will take time, effort, strength, & determination on your part. Your prosthetist should give you training on how to use your prosthesis. Your prosthetist may refer you to a physical therapist who can teach you how to improve your gait, perform activities within your home, car, or place of work. Your prosthetist should teach you how to care for your prosthesis, put in on and off, and how to adjust for different types of surfaces.
Remember that everyone responds differently to the loss of a limb. It is important to work through your feelings and emotions. Exercise to build the muscles needed for balance and walking. Properly take care of your residual limb prior to being fitted for your prosthesis.
Most health insurance plans will at least partially cover the cost of your prosthesis. It can range widely in price, depending on your amputation level and the type of device that is best suited for you.
As a new amputee we believe it is very valuable to speak and meet with other amputees who have already gone through the limb loss process. A prosthetic facility should be willing to put you in contact with others who have experienced limb loss. At Orthotech we invite every amputee to tour one of our facilities, meet with our staff, and current amputee patients.
The decision on which prosthetist to choose is ultimately yours to make. A relationship between an amputee and their prosthetist is very personal and unique. An amputee’s relationship with his/her prosthetist becomes lifelong. When choosing a prosthetist be sure that the individual is professional, knowledgeable, reliable, and covered by your insurance. Plan to build a strong relationship with both the prosthetist and the supporting staff at the prosthetic facility. In other words” it needs to feel right”.
The timing depends on how quickly your residual limb heals after surgery. Some individuals receive a temporary prosthesis immediately following their surgery, or within 2-3 weeks. Most typically a prosthetic fittting process starts 2-6 months after surgery
