Howard Orthotics_Your Prosthetics and Spring Exercise

Howard Orthotics_Your Prosthetics and Spring Exercise

Health

& Fitness

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SPRING TIME AND YOUR PROSTHETICS

With spring coming up you’ll likely be spending more time outdoors. Warm weather, however, affects your body differently than cold weather does, especially if you have orthotics or prosthetics. It’s important to make sure your devices stay in top condition while you’re enjoying outdoor activities. Take Care of Yourself If you use orthotics or prosthetics and haven’t been very active during the winter months it’s a good idea to start out slow. Suddenly spending several hours biking, walking, or just working in the yard could create a variety of problems. The following are several issues associated with warmweather and increased activity. Excessive Sweating - You’ll almost certainly sweat more when it’s warmer. Sweating in the socket of a prosthesis can increase the chance of bacterial infections on the residual limb. You may need to remove the device more often to completely dry your skin. Excessive sweating during exercise may cause the prosthesis to not fit as well or even detatch. Skin Breakdown - Suddenly increasing your activity level and engaging in movements you may not have done during the winter can cause skin chafing. If you use a liner you may need to remove it more often. Muscle & Joint Pain - Over-exertion with a prosthesis could cause increased pain in other limbs. Engaging in activities you haven’t done for a while can cause a variety of foot, knee, back, or shoulder pain.

Whether it’s a foot support, a brace, or a prosthesis, it’s necessary to keep your device in the best condition possible. There are different types of prosthetics that are designed for various activities such as biking, running, and swimming. If you’re enjoying various sports recreationally then the prosthesis you have for walking will usually be sufficient. Whether you only use a single device or more than one for various activities there are several things you can do to keep them functioning properly. Wear Correct Shoes and Socks - You will likely be wearing different shoes during the spring. It’s essential that any shoes worn with orthotics or prosthetics has been fitted for that specific device. When you are active throughout the day the fit of your prosthesis can often change. Thismeans you should have a few pair of socks of varying thicknesses with you. Carry a Supply Bag - If you are doing any type of activities that will keep you away from home for a long period of time it’s recommended to take along a bag of necessary items. This could include different types of socks, antibiotic ointment, and a variety of bandages. Get Evaluated Regularly - When you become more active, this will create wear and tear on your prosthesis. If you haven’t had your orthotic or prosthetic evaluated for several months and are planning on increasing your activity level this spring it’s a good idea make an appointment. Don’t adjust hinges, screws, or any part of your orthotics or prosthetics yourself. It’s important to take care of your own health as well as keep your prosthetics in good working condition during the spring and summer months. Call us today so we can evaluate and adjust your device. KEEP YOUR ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS IN TOP CONDITION

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FREE 15 Minute Check-Up • Consult with our experts • Review your problem • Receive recommendations on relieving your pain and improving motion

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Exercise Essentials

Try this simple exercise to help you feel better... Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

Squat - Arms Inline with Trunk Stand with good posture, feet shoulder width apart. Have arms back, keeping inline with your trunk. Perform a squat by bending at the hip. Rise up by straightening at the hip. Repeat 20 times.

Exercises copyright of

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S H A R E P l ease sha r e t hese exercises with friends and family members to help them stay healthy and free from pain. S A V E Save these in a place where you can easily use them as needed. Watch for more exercises in our next issue.

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