3 WAYS TO CARE FOR YOUR ORTHOSIS OR PROSTHESIS DURING VACATION
1. Pack the essentials. When traveling with an orthotic or prosthetic device, there are some things that are crucial to pack. A small travel kit can help make your vacation as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Make sure you include: • Skin dressings. If you are planning excursions that demand extensive physical activity, having extra skin dressings on hand is a must. With increased activity, the areas around the orthosis or prosthesis can begin to blister. Skin dressings can help treat those areas so that doesn’t happen. • Soap. Mild antibacterial soaps are perfect for keeping your socks, sleeves, and liners clean. As these materials become moist throughout the day, it is important to keep them clean so bacteria does not build up inside. • Extra supplies. Are you going to an area with a different climate? Even a slight change in temperature can affect the way your limb reacts. By keeping extra socks, shrinkers, gel liners, suspension sleeves, or anything else you typically use with your orthosis or prosthesis on hand, you can make sure that it still fits comfortably as it adapts to the new climate. • Antiperspirant. Are you traveling to a hot or humid climate? If so, antiperspirants are a must. Baby powder or liquid body powder both work perfectly for keeping the area around your orthotic or prosthetic device dry, so it does not slip against the skin. 2. Check your orthotic or prosthetic beforehand. Especially if you are traveling far, it is important to make sure that your orthosis is in top condition before leaving. What should you look for? Before traveling, check your orthotic or prosthetic device for: • Loose areas. • Cracks. • Liner tears. • Abnormal sounds with movement. If you notice any of these before you leave for your vacation, bring it in to Howard Orthotics
and Prosthetics so we can take a look at it. This will give you peace of mind that your device is working properly, so you can enjoy your vacation without any worries! 3. Prepare for your flight. Are you flying to your destination? It is no secret that flying with an orthotic or prosthetic device can pose some challenges. Here are some things you can do to make your flight as easy and stress free as possible: • Wear loose-fitting clothes. Loose clothes and slip on shoes can make it much easier when walking through airport security. This way, you can get through as quickly as possible, and easily show your orthosis or prosthesis to security if needed. • Have a letter on hand. While it is an unlikely scenario, it is good to have a letter on hand in case a TSA officer questions your disability. We would be happy to write a letter for you explaining why your orthotic or prosthetic device is needed, so you can show it to the TSA officer if that scenario arises. • Request bulkhead seating. These are the seats at the very front of the plane, reserved for individuals with disabilities. They are easy to get to and they have more space than the rest of the seats on the plane, making it easier to get up if needed. Contact us for help! Would you like more assistance in preparing for your vacation with your orthotic or prosthetic device? Don’t hesitate to contact Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics today! Your device should be the least of your worries when planning a trip. We’ll make sure you have everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation!
www.howardrehabcenter.com
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