Advancements in the field of prosthetics and orthotics have greatly improved the lives of individuals using these types of devices. Prosthetics are artificial limbs that are customized for each individual. Orthotics are devices such as braces, splints, and shoe inserts that help people more easily walk, run, or participate in daily activities. There are several tips you can follow for achieving the highest quality of life possible while using your orthotic or prosthetic.
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QUALITY OF LIFE WITH PROPER ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS
Advancements in the field of prosthetics and orthotics have greatly improved the lives of individuals using these types of devices. Prosthetics are artificial limbs that are customized for each individual. Orthotics are devices such as braces, splints, and shoe inserts that help people more easily walk, run, or participate in daily activities. There are several tips you can follow for achieving the highest quality of life possible while using your orthotic or prosthetic. Make Sure You Receive the Best Fit Possible When you initially receive either a prosthetic or orthotic it’s crucial to make sure it fits as snugly and comfortably as possible. This will enable you to move freely and naturally. There are several signs that your device is not fitted correctly. These can include skin irritation, ulcers, and general pain. Becoming increasingly unsteady and losing your balance are other indications of an improper fit. There are several reasons why a device may no longer fit like it should. • Time and simple wear and tear can cause a device to no longer fit properly and hinder your ability to move effectively and comfortably. • Pregnancy, recent weight gain or loss, or even an illness can cause a device to no longer fit correctly. Technology is constantly changing and advancements are being made regarding how prosthetics and orthotics fit an individual. If a poor fit is hindering your quality of life, there may be new technology available that can change how comfortably and easily your device fits.
Regular upkeep is absolutely necessary for maintaining an excellent quality of life with your device. There are several steps you can take to make sure your device is well cared for and continues to function as effectively as possible. • Remove all orthotics from your shoes at the end of each day to make sure they completely dry out. • Keep the area of your skin that attaches to a prosthetic as dry and infection-free as possible. • Keep liners and prosthetics germ-free with a mild antibacterial soap. • If at all possible, never wear a prosthetic or orthotic that is damaged or broken in any way. Schedule Regular Check-ups It’s important to visit your doctor or therapist on a regular basis to make sure your orthotic or prosthetic is working well. There may be signs that your device isn’t working as well as it should that a professional can spot that you’re not aware of. It may be beneficial to see other medical professionals besides those who specialize in prosthetics or orthotics. If you have recently had a limb amputated or have just started using a device, seeing a counselor who can help you cope psychologically can also be part of the process of reaching and maintaining a high quality of life. It’s also recommended to find an orthotic and prosthetic service that provides an on-site laboratory. This means there will likely be quick turn-around times and high quality services. Receiving the best possible fit, taking care of your device, and getting regular check-ups are all part of maintaining the highest quality of life. Ongoing therapy can also help you achieve the most successful outcome possible when using your orthotic or prosthetic device. KEEP YOUR DEVICE CLEANED AND CARED FOR
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Patient Success Story “Results. Although I realize that they are not final, they are most encouraging to date. I find my greatest satisfaction is being able to walk side by side (although not running yet!) with my grandchildren. It is nice to have two legs to stand on once again. Thank you all at Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics.” - James C.
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Do Your Orthotics Need a Tune Up?
FREE 15 Minute Check-Up • Consult with our experts • Review your problem • Receive recommendations on relieving your pain and improving motion
Roger Howard, CPO, Director
CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973
Offer good for the First 20 people who schedule. Expires 7-27-18
Recipe To Reduce Your Pain Carrot, Ginger, Lime Raw Soup
A refreshing cool soup for spring and summer
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup fresh carrot juice • Juice of 1 lime • 1-inch chunk ginger root, juiced
• 1/2 large avocado • 1/2 ear of fresh organic, non- GMO raw corn
Directions Pour the carrot, lime, ginger juice in a blender and add the avocado. Blend until smooth. Pour in a bowl and top the soup with fresh raw corn, shaved off the cob. PRACTICE NEWS 2018 Run for the River ™ 5K/10K
We are a proud Bronze sponsor for the upcoming Save the River’s 2018 Run for the River TM 5K/10K. Our team is also participating in this event on Saturday, July 28th!
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.
Weight Shift | Forward With Prosthetic Stand with prosthetic forward. No hand support. Lean forward, shifting weight over prosthetic.
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.
We Listen, We Care, We Get Results CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973
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