As a person who uses a prosthetic device, you have the opportunity to participate in a variety of fun and fulfilling activities. One important factor in maintaining your lifestyle is the ongoing care and maintenance of your prosthetic device for optimal performance. Any mechanical device requires regular care and maintenance to function at its prime; this is also true for prosthetic devices. Proper prosthetic care includes daily cleaning and routine maintenance to ensure both comfort and safety while using your prosthetic device. Our team of experts has put together a list of do’s and don’ts when it comes to caring for your prosthetic device.

Do’s for Proper Prosthetic Care

1. Do Clean Daily

Just like we clean our bodies on a daily basis, prosthetic devices also need daily cleaning to stay in top shape. Without cleaning, dirt and oils from your body and the environment can build up and affect the fit and performance of your prosthetic device. The type of cleaning that’s appropriate for proper prosthetic care depends on the type of device being used, but can include wiping with a damp cloth or mild soap, using rubbing alcohol, or dusting with compressed air. How to clean your device should be part of the conversation you have with your prosthetist when you receive your new prosthetic device, and you should continue to follow these instructions diligently until your care team advises you otherwise or until you change devices.

2. Do Prioritize Drying as Much as Cleaning

Your prosthetic device should be 100% dry before wearing. Many prosthetic users choose to perform their daily prosthetic care and cleaning at night so that their device has time to dry completely while they are sleeping. Not only can residual moisture harm the prosthetic device (especially any metal elements), it can also harm your skin.

3. Do Remember Residual Limb Care

For optimal performance, both the prosthetic device and your limb need to be kept in good shape. Monitor your residual limb for changes in your skin and any new pain or discomfort. Also, give your prosthetic device a quick once-over every day as part of ongoing prosthetic care. Any signs of skin irritation or discomfort, along with any problems with components of your device should be brought to the attention of your healthcare team immediately. It’s also very important to keep up with checkups and yearly adjustments with your prosthetist.

Don’ts when Caring for a Prosthetic Device

1. Do Not Fully Immerse Your Prosthetic Device in Water (Unless Expressly Designed For The Purpose)

Water damage is a real hazard when caring for prosthetic devices, especially those with electric/microprocessor components. Unless your prosthesis is specifically designed to be worn in the water, proper prosthetic care includes avoiding exposure to swimming pools, fresh water, or the ocean. Even normal showers or baths can be enough to damage prosthetic devices. If your device does get wet, dry it immediately.

2. Do Not Store in Hot Areas

The plastics used in prosthetic devices need to be stored in a cool, dry place. Heat can warp or melt plastics and cause colors to fade. This means you should never leave your prosthetic device in a car, where there is the added risk of theft.

3. Do Not Fix Your Own Prosthetic Device

If you wear a prosthetic device, you are responsible for the daily cleaning required for proper prosthetic care; however you should never attempt to adjust or fix your device without specific guidance from your prosthetist. If something is wrong, always make an appointment to see your prosthetist at Kenney Orthopedics first! Our professionals can complete more intricate and complicated maintenance tasks necessary to fix loose or broken components so that your prosthetic device will be safe and ready for your next activity!

Contact Us

Do you have additional questions about caring for a prosthetic device? Contact your team at Kenney Orthopedics to discuss tips for prosthetic care customized for your prosthetic device. We are proud to offer multiple locations with offices near Lexington, KY; Louisville, KY; Indianapolis, IN; and Charlotte, NC and across the states of Kentucky, Indiana, and North Carolina.