It’s a new year – but when you’re entering a new year with limb loss for the first time, what can you expect? You may be feeling like there’s nothing “happy” about the new year at all - or perhaps you’re sitting at the other side of the extreme, determined to get back to normal life before January is even over.
As 2017 gets off to a start, we’ve got some tips for you that can make this new year a happy one. Read on to find out more!
Make Self-Care a Priority
No matter how you’re feeling about the loss of your limb, taking care of yourself can be hard for lots of reasons. If you’re feeling down, you may not feel like doing anything, including self-care. On the other hand, if you’re feeling super optimistic and ready to get the ball rolling on a full recovery, you may not take enough time to focus on yourself and your needs!
Take a moment to assess how you feel. Hopeful? Dreary? Energized? Sluggish? Understanding your current emotional state is the key to knowing how to proceed. Regardless of where you fall on the emotional spectrum, take a day or two for processing your thoughts and feelings. Prepare your favorite meal, spend some time journaling, finally get around to reading that book you’ve had laying around forever. Then, once you’re in a peaceful state of mind, consider the year ahead.
Visualize Your Future Self
Where do you want to be in December? What are some realistic, fulfilling goals you can set? Write them down and make a plan to celebrate the small accomplishments you’ll achieve this year on your way to your ideal end-of-year goal.
For example, if you’re hoping to be comfortable and skilled with your leg prosthesis at some point this year, make that your ultimate goal – and then create sub-goals that will help you get there. Start by making sure your prosthesis fits perfectly. Then, with the help of the professionals at BioTech, start learning to walk on it. Celebrate every step, every set of stairs climbed, every downhill slope navigated. You can do this, and with the right attitude, you will!
Call BioTech for Help and Advice
Who says you can’t make New Year’s resolutions just because you’ve lost a limb? There are plenty of goals to make and accomplishments to dominate, and BioTech is here to help you reach them. Whether you’re looking for help with your prosthesis or you just need someone to talk to, contact us today – we’re not satisfied until you feel ready to conquer the world!
The winter months can be hard for everyone – transportation gets trickier, the sidewalks can get slippery, and if it snows, just forget about it! But when you’re new to limb loss and trying to adjust to your prosthetic device, things can be even more challenging. Check out these winter limb loss tips that will make your life easier!
Challenges Amputees Face in the Winter
Winter can pose a whole new set of challenges for people with limb loss. Newer prostheses are often mostly constructed of metals that are left exposed, and when the weather gets really cold, that chill can creep through the socket into your residual limb.
Another challenge is walking on ice. Typically, when a person walks on an icy surface, they walk almost completely flat footed to compensate for the lack of traction. But when you have a leg prosthesis, your ankle can’t always adapt that way – which means slipping is a very real possibility.
Solutions for These Issues
The best option for keeping your prosthesis and your residual limb warm this winter is insulation. If you’re not sure what that looks like or where to find it, there are all kinds of options, from sleeves to liners and more. Just make sure to bundle up, even if you’re not wearing your prosthesis – your residual limb can get very irritated and start to hurt from the cold weather.
(As a side note, it’s advised that you don’t skip wearing your device in the winter – so do your best to be consistent!)
When it comes to walking on ice, there are bionic ankles that can bend with greater acuity than ever before. But if that’s not something you’re interested in, there’s also a wide variety of shoes with exceptional traction that can help you stay upright on an icy surface.
Want More Winter Limb Loss Tips?
Here at BioTech, we’re experts on winter prosthetic technology and caring for your device. Make sure you’re comfortable and safe this season by contacting us for more information about wearing your prosthesis in the winter!
If you’re a snow skier entering your first winter after limb loss, you may be wondering if you’ll ever be able to enjoy skiing again. BioTech has good news – snow skiing with a prosthesis is totally possible! Read on for tips to get back on the slopes.
Outriggers
These devices resemble ski poles and are used to maintain stability as you wind down the mountain. At the end of the poles are mini-skis, which allow you to put one down if you lose your balance without disrupting your groove!
Some above and below knee amputees choose not to wear a prosthesis while skiing, opting to use outriggers while skiing only on their sound leg. This is called the “three track method.”
Types of Prostheses for Snow Skiing
There are some great options for amputees looking to enjoy snow skiing with a prosthesis. In fact, these devices can be used for other sports that involve similar motions, too, like wakeboarding and waterskiing. Knee disarticulation and above knee amputees would likely want a foot and knee combination, while below knee amputees can use a simple foot component. This can be attached directly to the ski binding, or it can be combined with a foot shell that is shaped for snowboard boots.
If you’d rather eliminate the need for a ski boot altogether, some foot prostheses made specifically for skiing can be inserted directly into the ski binding. This allows you to skip the boot and can be configured to fit just about any binding you’ve got.
Finally, if you’re really serious about snow skiing with a prosthesis, there is the option to have an entire leg prosthesis made specifically for hitting the slopes! These devices can incorporate a foot that is already tilted at the proper angle for a boot, better hip control and suspension, and an elastic fork strap that goes down over the knee joint and limits the amount that it will flex – a must when you are skiing downhill! This strap can easily be disconnected when walking so that you can bend the joint properly.
Questions about Snow Skiing with a Prosthesis?
Whatever your question, BioTech is here with the answer! We specialize in helping our patients recognize their possibilities and live a full, happy life. If you’ve got questions or concerns about snow skiing with a prosthesis – or anything else! – don’t hesitate to contact us today. We are always ready to help!
The holidays are here, and gift season is in full swing! It can be challenging to find the perfect gift for everyone in your life, though – especially when you’ve got a friend or relative who has recently lost a limb. Luckily, BioTech is here with some great, fresh ideas for gifts for amputees, and we’ve divided them into “serious gifts” and “funny gifts” (because everyone feels differently about their limb loss, so you might need a wide variety of options!). Read on!
Serious Gifts for Amputees
This hand prosthesis patent print could make for some interesting, personal art in your friend or relative’s home. It’s unique and historical, not to mention extremely low cost!
One thing you might not consider as a gift (or at least, as part of a gift) is baby wipes. They come in handy when it comes to cleaning a residual limb or liner. When someone with limb loss is out and about, they may want to take off their prosthesis for a little while – but they know that if they do, they’ll need to wipe down their residual limb before they put it back on. Having wipes on hand can be super convenient!
Another great product is AmpuBalm, which can be especially helpful to someone who is in their first 6 months of recovery. For protecting skin and creating a barrier between the residual limb and the socket, AmpuBalm is one of the best options on the market – but it can also be hard to find, so if you get some for your loved one, you’re probably helping them out a lot!
We also love this Amputee Awareness keychain, which could help the person remember that you are thinking of them every time they look at it!
This leg prosthesis patent mug could be a cool gift for the coffee lover in your life. They’ll probably be the only one at the office with a mug like this!
Finally, there’s Noah Galloway’s new book. He’s an inspiring person who might help your loved one remember that their life is still full of possibilities. If your friend or family member is a bookworm – or they just love Noah (and who doesn’t?) – this might be the perfect choice!
Funny Gifts for Amputees
If your loved one has demonstrated a sense of humor about their limb loss, a funny or clever gift might be right up their alley.
Café Press has lots of t-shirts with limb loss-related witticisms, and we think some of them are pretty funny (especially the one that says “Leg Story: $10”). You can also get drinkware, wall art, and jewelry with amputee humor!
Before you purchase anything humorous for your loved one with limb loss, make sure they are ready to make light of their situation. The last thing you want to do is appear to be making fun of them, so unless you are 100% confident that they will appreciate the joke, stick with one of the more serious options!
Call BioTech for Dedicated, Personalized Service
When it comes to caring for people with limb loss, nobody does it better than BioTech. Give us a call today for all your prosthetic and orthotic needs!
Here at BioTech, our patients come first – no matter what. And while we know our customers love us (almost) as much as we love them, it’s always nice to get a thank you note from someone who wants to tell us how we made a difference in their life.
Take a look at this adorable message and artwork from one of our patients, Samuel Johnson!
Dear BioTech Limb and Brace,
I’m very thankful that Children’s Hospital had told us about these braces. These braces are better than my other braces, and very much more comfortable then [sic] the others. My first braces I hated because they always pinched me, and it left blood blisters because they had hinjes [sic]. My second braces was [sic] a lot better than the first ones because instead of hinjes they had flexible plastic.
The first and second pair of braces are nothing compared to these awesome carbonite braces with springs. Now I know for a fact that they have springs. Well how I know is because when we was [sic] at co-op which is a place where we meet up with other homeschoolers to do class on every Monday. I was racing my friends inside and jumped higher than ever before and I couldn’t stop myself from from [sic] falling so I slid across the concrete and flew into the door. The first time I put these braces on I felt a whole lot better. Thank you BioTech for helping me.
Love,
Samuel K. Johnson
We Can Help You Feel a Whole Lot Better, Too!
Improving quality of life is one of our main goals for our patients. That’s why Samuel’s letter resonates with us so deeply – he has put into words what we want for everyone who walks through our door. Whether it’s orthotic braces or a prosthetic device, patient comfort and satisfaction is our top goal.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you!
For many of us, family gatherings over the holidays are complicated already. (Yes, some people out there have nothing but fun in these situations – but most of us feel a little anxious.) If you’re new to limb loss and still adjusting to your prosthetic device, it might seem even more daunting to think about getting together with family this season.
Here at BioTech, we completely understand how strange it can feel to navigate this new world you’ve entered, and we’ve got some tips to make the holidays go as smoothly as possible. Read on!
Make Your Wishes Clear
Everyone feels differently about losing a limb. If you’re fine talking about it, then go ahead and mention your prosthesis as soon as the first person asks how you are. A casual “I’m good, just still getting used to this thing!” can break the ice immediately and signal to your loved one that you don’t mind discussing your amputation.
However, if you’d rather not be asked about the situation, it may be wise to have a trusted family member communicate that beforehand to everyone who will attend the event. This way, you’ll avoid the covert glances, the hesitant half-questions (“So, about your, uh…”), and the general uncertainty that comes along with these kinds of things. No one will want to handle it poorly, so if you can set out your wishes clearly ahead of time, it will be to everyone’s benefit once the gathering is underway.
Practice Your Answers
If you decide to face the situation head-on and address everyone’s inquiries, you may want to rehearse some answers before you go. This might sound silly, but in the end, it can save you a lot of energy – especially if you’re an introvert!
Think about the five questions you’re most likely to hear. This will vary from person to person, but generally, your family members will probably ask how you’re feeling, how your recovery has gone, how you’re adapting to your prosthesis, and so forth. Consider how much detail you’d like to go into when you answer these questions, and craft an answer that will satisfy the asker without requiring you to divulge more than you want.
(And remember, if you get too many follow-up questions, excusing yourself from the conversation is totally warranted.)
Give Yourself an Out
There aren’t many things worse than being trapped at a holiday gathering with no escape. If you think you might panic halfway through, or if the questions become more than you anticipated and you’re tired of being the center of attention, find something that will give you an out if you need it.
There are lots of things you could use for a potential escape, but one thing to keep in mind is that your family already realizes you’ve been through a lot. If you tell them you’re ready to go home and rest, they will likely let you leave without giving you a hard time (or they should, anyway). Honesty may be the best policy when it comes to leaving the event early, but you’ll have to decide that for yourself.
Call BioTech for Your Prosthetic Device Needs!
We love our patients so much that we treat them like family. If you need a friendly ear, advice from an expert, or a fitting adjustment, contact us right away. We are always here to help!
When it comes to people with limb loss, there are all sorts of myths and misunderstandings that get tossed around. We’re here to debunk a few of the most common misconceptions about amputees and make sure people know the truth. Read on!
Misconception #1: We Never Want to Talk about Our Prosthesis.
This one is a personal choice, and it will vary from one individual to the next – but the idea that a person with limb loss definitely does not want you to notice, or ask about, their prosthesis is not necessarily true.
Many amputees wear their prosthesis proudly, and they will kindly answer a question or two about it. It’s generally rude to gawk, of course, and you shouldn’t launch a whole barrage of personal questions at the individual – but if you proceed with caution and respect, most people with limb loss don’t mind talking about it.
Misconception #2: We Can’t Go Back to Work.
Depending on the career and the nature of the job, many amputees are able to resume their previous positions after they have recovered. This is just as good for the person’s heart and mind as it is for their bank account – having an occupation reminds an amputee that they still have so much to offer their community, and that limb loss isn’t the end of the story for them.
Alternately, some amputees end up in a completely different career that they never would have pursued if it hadn’t been for their limb loss. You just never know!
Misconception #3: We Must Have Had a Traumatic Accident.
Limb loss due to combat is what makes headlines – and for good reason, as military amputees are extremely brave and have willingly put themselves in the line of fire, knowing that limb loss (or something worse) was a possibility.
And there are people out there who lose limbs to tragic circumstances like car accidents or animal attacks. But the reality is that most amputations are a result of disease, such as cancer or diabetes, and not related to an accident at all.
BioTech Knows the Misconceptions about Amputees – and We Teach the Truth!
We work with people every day who’ve experienced limb loss, and we know the kinds of myths they encounter. If you’re looking for a company who knows your challenges, understands what you’ve been through, and can help you recognize all your possibilities, come to BioTech. We’re here for your every need, and we’re dedicated to providing the kind of service you’ll never forget. Contact us today!
Losing a limb can feel like a daunting setback. Even after you’ve physically recovered and learned to wear your new prosthesis, everything feels different and the learning curve looks huge. But if there’s one thing we’ve learned about limb loss, it’s that your perspective on the situation can make or break your ability to move forward and recognize all your possibilities.
Check out these tips for thankfulness as we approach Thanksgiving season!
Focus on What You Have
We’re not trying to minimize the circumstances that led to your limb loss – but you have a choice about what you focus on. Will you dwell on your losses, or will you zone in on the fact that your life is still full of purpose?
The choice you make can have a deep impact on your mental and emotional health for years to come, so it’s important to focus on the positives. Take inventory of everything you didn’t lose. Go over that list every day until thankfulness becomes instinctual. You’ll be amazed at the difference in your overall perspective!
Remember that Limb Loss Isn’t the End
The loss of a limb can feel like the loss of your favorite hobby, a beloved sport, or even your career. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
With all the technological developments in the field of prosthetics, and the way new industries like 3D printing are changing the affordability of prosthetic devices, maintaining your former lifestyle is much more possible than you may think. Whether you want to keep shooting hoops or you don’t want to give up globetrotting, chances are, there’s a prosthesis out there that can help you keep doing what you love.
Move Forward
Okay, so you’ve taken inventory of all the great things in your life and you’ve found a prosthesis that allows you to stick with your favorite activity or your job. What now?
You’ve already done the important part, which is to focus on the good and move into your new normal. Now, you’ve got to keep that momentum going! It’s common to have an off day every now and then, but as long as you’re aiming for a life of purpose and positivity, you’ll see a lot more fulfillment in your everyday activities.
Contact BioTech!
Here at BioTech, we’re passionate about helping you recognize all your possibilities after limb loss. You don’t stop – so neither do we! If you’re looking for a fitting or you just need some answers, BioTech is here for you. Contact us today!
Halloween is approaching, and with it, the question of costumes. If you’re new to limb loss, you may be tempted to skip out on the festivities this year – but there’s no need for that! Losing a limb (or two, or more) just means your costume options have changed. Read on for three great Halloween costumes for people with limb loss!
#1: The Black Knight from Monty Python and the Holy Grail
This is definitely the most versatile option on our list, given that the Black Knight goes through a series of limb losses during his fight scene. No matter how many limbs you’re missing, you can be the Black Knight – even as a quadruple amputee!
Buy or make a black helmet that covers your entire head (including your face!), fashion a suit of armor out of a black tunic and some leggings, add a red dragon on the front, and play up your missing limb with some red paint. Assure everyone around you that it’s “only a flesh wound,” and your costume is complete!
#2: The Leg Lamp from A Christmas Story
Even if you’ve never seen the movie, you’ve probably seen the leg lamp somewhere. This one will require the use of crutches or a cane, though, because you’ll have to leave your leg prosthesis at home!
You’ll need a fishnet stocking, a black high heel, and a lampshade with black fringe around the bottom edge. Rig the lampshade so that it stays around your thigh, and wear plain clothing up top so as not to distract from the genius of your costume! Bonus points for every time you refer to your leg lamp as “fra-GEE-lay.”
#3: Dr. Arliss Loveless from Wild Wild West
Here’s a unique option for wheelchair users, especially double leg amputees. According to villians.wikia.com, Dr. Loveless is “an evil genius who was once part of the Confederate army during the American Civil War and the founder and leader of the Loveless Alliance.” He’s a major villain who seeks to overthrow the United States government and divide it up among himself and his villain friends.
For this costume, think steampunk: top hat, round glasses (dark, preferably), black clothing, and a steam-powered wheelchair.
Embrace Your Possibilities with BioTech!
Here at BioTech, we know that losing a limb is challenging – but that doesn’t mean you should stop having fun! Take advantage of Halloween this year, and dress up like something you couldn’t have pulled off before your limb loss.
And remember, we’re here to help you with all your prosthetic and orthotic needs. Contact us with any questions you have – we’re always happy to help!
Is it just us, or does the air feel a little crisper than usual? Hooray – it’s fall! Here in beautiful Alabama, one of our favorite ways to enjoy the season (besides football games, hot chocolate, and pumpkin spice everything) is to take a long hike through the golden-orange woods. Read on for tips about hiking with a prosthesis!
Make Preparations
Before you set off down your favorite trail, make sure you talk to your prosthetist about your plans. You’ll probably want to stop by and have them check the fit of your prosthesis, as well as ensure that everything is working the way it should be.
It’s also good to be certain that your prosthesis can withstand the activity you’re about to participate in; some are made to hold up under tougher conditions than others, so a pre-hike prosthesis checkup is definitely in order!
Supplies for Hiking with a Prosthesis
Depending on your amputation and your level of physical fitness, you may want to wear or bring the following things:
- Appropriate Footwear. Supportive, lightweight shoes are a must for hiking! If you are a leg amputee, your sound limb will endure a lot of shock during your hike, and a good shoe can help absorb some of that shock.
- Chafe Guard or Barrier Cream. With temperature increase and sweat production comes friction, and even if your socket fits perfectly during everyday activities, hiking can create new pressure points due to the uneven terrain.
- Adjustable Trekking Poles. These can help with balance (which can be tricky, given all the roots and rocks in your way!) and with power/braking assistance as you go up and down hills.
- A Multi-tool with Allen Wrenches. Ordinarily, we really do not advise you to adjust your prosthesis on your own – but if a bolt works its way loose on the trail, the ability to tighten it up might be the only way you can walk (as opposed to hop) back to your car!
- A Friend. While a solitary walk in the woods might sound appealing, the last thing you need is for something to happen that leaves you stranded – alone. Choose wisely and take a friend along. After all, a hike is more fun when you share it with someone else!
Need Advice? Call BioTech!
Here at BioTech Limb and Brace, we specialize in answering questions and meeting needs. Limb loss is a life-changing experience, but it certainly doesn’t have to mean that the fun’s over! Contact us if you’re looking for ways to recognize all your new possibilities. We’re always here to help!