Keeping your prosthetic and liner in good condition helps keep you comfortable while ensuring their long-lasting functionality.
Daily prosthetic care and proper liner sanitation involves a few steps. But once you get into the habit, you’ll master quick prosthetic cleaning so you can move forward and live your life.
Daily Cleaning
Maintaining cleanliness is key to preventing skin irritation and infections. Cleaning your liner every day often feels like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be! The Rapid Ozone Sleeve Sanitizer (ROSS) uses the power of ozone to sanitize your liner, removing 99% of harmful, odor-causing bacteria. With just three easy steps, you’ll have a clean, fresh-smelling liner in as little as 10 minutes.
Learn more about ROSS and start streamlining your cleaning routine today!
Skin Care
The skin that comes into contact with the prosthetic requires special attention. The health of your skin is a priority.
- Use gentle, hypoallergenic skin care products to prevent irritation.
- Keep the skin clean and moisturized, but avoid lotions and creams that leave a greasy residue, as they can affect the fit and adherence of the prosthetic.
- Avoid formulations with extra ingredients (like fragrances) on areas of your body that come into contact with the liner and prosthetic.
- Lastly, regularly inspect your skin for any signs of redness, blisters or sores, and address any issues promptly, either by treating mild instances yourself or contacting your physician for treatment.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections of your prosthetic and liner are vital for detecting wear and tear early.
- Create a checklist to ensure you don’t miss any crucial points.
- Check for cracks, tears or any changes in the material’s texture.
- Ensure that all straps, buckles and other components are in good working order.
- If you notice any issues, consult your prosthetist immediately to prevent further damage and ensure your prosthetic remains functional.
Liner Rotation
Using multiple liners can extend their lifespan and allow for thorough cleaning.
Rotate between liners daily to give each one ample time to dry and air out completely. This practice helps maintain hygiene and prevents the buildup of bacteria and odors.
Additionally, rotating liners reduces wear and tear on a single liner, ensuring each one lasts longer.
Storage Tips
Proper storage of your prosthetic and liner is essential to maintain their integrity.
- Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can degrade the materials over time.
- Use a designated storage case or bag to protect them from dust and damage.
- Ensure that the storage area is clean and free from contaminants that could transfer to your prosthetic.
- You can store your liner in ROSS, and just before you put it on, quickly do a 10 minute re-fresher cycle so that your liner smells great and is germ-free.
Professional Maintenance
Regular check-ups with your prosthetist are crucial for the long-term maintenance of your prosthetic. Schedule appointments at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice any issues. Your prosthetist can make the necessary adjustments, perform repairs and provide professional cleaning.
Staying proactive with professional maintenance ensures your prosthetic remains in top condition and continues to fit well.
Odor Management
Odor is a common issue with prosthetics, especially in warmer climates or after physical activity.
- To prevent and address odors, clean your prosthetic and liner daily. Use a ROSS machine to kill any bacteria-causing odor.
- Ensure they are thoroughly dry before wearing them.
- Be aware of any unusual odors, or odors that are especially foul, since that can indicate an infection.
- The best way to keep your liner free of odors and bacteria is to use a ROSS device.
- If odors from your residual limb persist, contact your physician as soon as possible.
Material-Specific Care
Learn about the materials that your liner and prosthetic were made with, because different prosthetic materials have different care instructions.
- Silicone, for example, is durable but can be sensitive to certain chemicals.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance and only use recommended products and cleaning techniques.
- If your prosthetic has electronic components, ensure they are kept dry and follow any additional care instructions provided.
- Understanding the specific needs of your prosthetic’s materials will help maintain their longevity and functionality and ultimately make your life easier.
Travel Advice
Maintaining hygiene while traveling can be challenging but is essential for your comfort and health.
- Pack a portable cleaning solution to ensure you can clean your prosthetic and liner daily, even on the go.
- Bring extra liners to rotate and allow for thorough drying.
- Store your prosthetic in a protective case to prevent damage during transit.
- A good tip is to always keep a travel kit prepared so you don’t have to make a whole new one every time you want to spend the night somewhere.
- If you are traveling to a sporting event, ask the clinician if they have a ROSS for you to use after the event.
By following these tips and best practices, you can ensure that your prosthetic and liner remain in optimal working condition, providing you with comfort and functionality for years to come.
Finally, add ROSS to your prescribed cleaning routine for extra sanitization of your liners and sleeves. Contact us to learn more!
