How to Stay Cool in the Summer With Your Prosthesis

With proper knowledge and a bit of planning, you can comfortably wear your prosthesis on the harshest summer days.

Wearing a prosthetic arm or prosthetic leg in the Arkansas heat does not have to be a struggle. With proper planning and a few basic supplies, you can stay clean, dry, and comfortable, even with the summer heat at full throttle. Here are some tips to beat the sweat during the vacation months:

Keep prosthetic socks handy

Summer and sweat go hand in hand. However, perspiration can cause your residual limb to shrink and your prosthesis to loosen. While you cannot avoid sweating, you can prevent rashes and chafing by having a few extra pairs of prosthetic socks at hand. Change into a fresh pair of socks regularly to keep your prosthesis snug and irritation away.

Dry off with a clean towel

When sweat builds up, take off your prosthesis and dry off your skin, liner, and the inside of your prosthesis with a clean, dry towel. This helps keep friction at bay. If you plan to to be outside for a long period of time, bring a couple extra towels to keep everything clean and cool.

Rinse with soap and warm water

At the end of the day, a simple rinse with warm water and gentle hand soap is often all you need to prevent infection. The solution eradicates bacteria from your prosthetic socks without risk of damage. Hang your socks out to dry before resuming wear to prevent irritation and other complications.

Use specialized antiperspirants

Whether it is a day at the beach, or an afternoon in the backyard, it is important to have an effective antiperspirant on hand to upper limb prosthesis. Keep skin dressings handy to apply to problem areas as soon as you notice them.

Your prosthesis should not limit your summer fun. Horton Orthotics & Prosthetics designs customized orthotic, orthopedic, and prosthetic devices and provides education and support to help you live life unhindered. For professional, family-friendly service for your prosthetic arm or prosthetic leg in Arkansas, call Horton’s today at (501) 683-8889.