Amputation and Prosthetics
Home Glossary Messages Interact About Us Resources Links
Amputation
Types
Procedures
Rehabilitation
Famous Amputees
Causes
Atherosclerosis
Birth Defects
Buerger's Disease
Diabetes
Frostbite
Gangrene
Infection
Lack of Blood
Necrotizing Fasciitis
Punishment
Raynaud's Phenomina
Tumor
Prosthesis
History
Care
Limitations
Reattachment
Prosthetic Limbs
Arms
Fingers and Hands
Legs
Feet
Prosthetic Parts
Arteries
Blood
Ears
Eyes
Heart
Heart Valve
Kidney
Liver
Lungs
Nose
Skin
Teeth
Voice Box
Life of
Child Amputees
Adult Amputees
Elderly Amputees
Athletic Amputees
Future
Clones
Stem Cells
Robotics
Animals
Regeneration

Language: English Español Français Deutscher

Limitations
    After an amputation, of a lower limb, standing and moving is difficult. Even after the limb heals, most amputees cannot bear their full body weight on the stump. Because of lack of use, atrophy occurs and the sense of touch is lost. The loss of touch for upper-limb amputees is even greater
    To make sure that the stump is healthy enough to use prosthesis, there must be a proper amount of ventilation. With the stump in a socket the whole day perspiration, secretion, bacteria, and matter can build up leading to abrasions and cysts. Just like the rest of the body, the stump should be washed, but dried before being placed in the prosthetic device.
    Problems that may occur are burns and blisters from the friction of the prosthetic. If this occurs, they should be washed gently. However, if the injuries are serious, a physician should be consulted.