How to Maintain Your Arm Prosthetic

robotic prosthetics

It’s important for those that have prosthetic devices to know how to take care of them so they will stay in great condition for a long time. One of the biggest problems that people run into with prosthetics in Memphis and elsewhere is bacteria growth and odors. To prevent these problems and others, here are 8 steps that you should take:

  1. Clean the prosthetic every day. Use a mild soap with a soft cloth, sponge, or old toothbrush. Make sure that you completely dry it out afterwards. Washing it at night will allow it to dry out overnight.
  2. Don’t use the prosthetic in activities that could damage it, such as high-impact sports, swimming, and other things that would get chemicals on it. When you are fitted you for the prosthetic, make sure to ask about other artificial limbs that are made specifically to participate in these activities.
  3. Change the limb sock every day. Make sure that you wash it with water and mild soap. Don’t use detergent on it, because it can irritate your skin.
  4. If you have leather pieces on yours, work to keep them dry. When you need to clean it, use saddle soap and a leather brush.
  5. Wash any silicone socks, liners, webbing portions, and suction socket valves. Use mild soap and make sure to let everything dry out.
  6. When storing your prosthetic, make sure to lay it on a flat surface.
  7. If you notice any odors coming from your prosthetic, put baking soda into the limb. Not only will it neutralize odors, but it can also eliminate bacteria.
  8. When your limb gets damaged, make sure to contact a prosthetic expert such as us to repair it. An expert will be able to examine the issues and repair it for you. It’s better to have professionals repair it, so there isn’t further damaged incurred.

If you have any other questions about caring for prosthetics in Memphis, we can give you the answers you’re looking for so your prosthetic will last a long time.