Fitting

At Ozark Prosthetics and Orthotics our staff and team of experts have decades of combined experience in crafting just the right fit for your needs.

Maximum comfort, stability and mobility is what we strive to achieve.

 

After your Amputation Surgery

Once the doctor has given the approval, you should begin by wrapping your residual limb with an ace bandage in a figure 8 pattern. If you, your nurse or your therapist need help with wrapping your limb feel free to call our office for more instruction. The Proper wrapping of your residual limb is important as it assists with reducing swelling as well as helping to shape the residual limb in preparation for your prosthesis.

Shrinker socks may be needed. In some cases your physician may order a shrinker post operatively and we will just provide a slightly larger size to assist with shaping and reducing swelling. The main role of a shrinker is to help shape your limb in preparation for your prosthesis. We recommend you wear a shrinker at all times, (even during sleep) unless you are bathing or showering. After you receive your prosthesis, we recommend you wear a shrinker anytime you are not bathing, showering, swimming or wearing your prosthesis. Continuing to wear a shrinker after you receive your prosthesis will assist with keeping your limb the same shape and size.

Temporary/Preparatory Prosthesis

Your first step will be a preparatory or temporary prosthesis. A temporary prosthesis is required because your residual limb may fluctuate in size rapidly for many months following surgery. During this time your socket may require several adjustments. A temporary prosthesis may be required for several months and may need adjustments as frequently as weekly in the beginning . Depending on the size of your residual limb and how fast your swelling decreases will make a big difference in how much adjusting your temporary prosthesis may need.

Definitive Prosthesis

Once your residual limb has stabilized you will be fitted for a definitive prosthesis. It’s important to understand that your prosthesis will not last forever. The prosthesis is fabricated from mechanical parts and sometimes they wear out or break. Your definitive prosthesis will generally last between two to five years, depending on your age, weight gain or loss and activity level. Children who wear a prosthesis frequently require more care due to continuous growth. People who lose or gain significant amount of weight will probably require additional adjustments and possibly a new socket.

Orthosis and Orthotics

Your first visit will be an evaluation. A cast may be required to get the exact size and fit for your Orthosis or Orthotic. Once that is done we will have your device fabricated and set another appointment for your delivery of the device. At the fitting appointment your practitioner may need to make some minor adjustments to the device. He will ask you to stand and walk so he can see how the device is functioning. Once all your minor adjustments have been made you will be able to leave with your new custom device. If you have any problems with your new device don't hesitate to give us a call to set up another appointment with your practitioner.