Prosthetic Device Care & Maintenance Tips

Daily Residual Limb Care

Your residual limb (stump) is the foundation of prosthetic function. Daily skin care is as important as prosthetic maintenance:

• Wash the residual limb with mild, non-perfumed soap and warm water each evening. Rinse and dry thoroughly, paying attention to skin folds.
• Inspect the skin daily for redness, blisters, abrasions, or open areas. Report any skin breakdown to your prosthetist and physician immediately.
• Apply a light, non-greasy moisturizer to dry skin, but avoid heavy creams or lotions immediately before donning — they can affect liner adhesion.
• Keep the residual limb elevated when resting to reduce edema, especially in the early months post-amputation.
• Never ignore pain inside the socket. Discomfort that persists more than a few minutes indicates a fit problem, not something to "push through."

Socket & Frame Maintenance

The socket is the most wear-prone component of a prosthesis. Routine care extends its service life:

• Clean the socket interior daily with a damp cloth and mild soap. Allow to air dry completely before use.
• Check the socket for cracks, delamination, or loose components each week. Run your hand along the interior to feel for rough spots.
• Inspect the suspension system — check pin locks for debris, test elevated vacuum pump function, and examine suction valves for cracks.
• Keep screws and bolts snug (not over-tightened). A loose pylon connection can cause misalignment and falls.
• Dynamic response feet and carbon fiber keels can fatigue over time — ask your prosthetist to inspect for micro-cracks at each visit.

Liner Care

Prosthetic liners (silicone, urethane, or thermoplastic elastomer) interface directly with your skin and must be kept clean and pliable:

1. After removal, turn the liner inside-out and hand-wash with mild soap and lukewarm water.
2. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue — residue can irritate skin and degrade liner material.
3. Pat dry gently with a soft towel; never wring or twist.
4. Store inside-out in a clean, dry location away from heat, sunlight, and sharp objects.
5. Replace liners every 3–6 months, or sooner if they develop tears, thinning, or adhesion problems.

When to Call Your Prosthetist

Schedule an appointment with your certified prosthetist any time you notice:

• Skin redness that does not resolve within 20 minutes of socket removal
• Open sores, ulcers, or blisters on the residual limb
• Unusual sounds (clicking, grinding) from knee or foot components
• Changes in your gait or balance that feel different from before
• Significant weight change (>5 lbs) affecting socket fit
• Electronic components not responding or battery charging issues
• Any fall or impact that may have damaged structural components