You should wear your shrinker 23 hours per day (unless told differently by your physician)
and change it every other day. If you do not have a second shrinker, another one can be

purchased, Your shrinker should be removed when bathing, and if any numbness or tingling
occurs.

Walking will vary because healing is different for each person. On average, healing time will

range from 1-3 months. However, it could be longer for patients with diabetes or other

health related issues. Your ability to walk is determined by how hard you work in therapy,

and regain strength and range of motion.

Phantom pain will also vary from person to person. Some people never experience it, while

others experience it from time to time forever. Often times when you are fit with your

prosthesis, the pain or sensation may decrease due to the total contact provided by the

socket. Sometimes, stump shrinkers also provide relief and there are a number of

techniques that can be used to reduce phantom pains that your therapist will discuss with

you.

Physical and Occupational Therapy plays a very important part in your rehabilitation

process. You will learn new techniques for walking which are key to a speedy recovery.

The fabrication of a prosthesis is a very labor intensive process, requiring multiple fittings to

ensure the best fit. we can obtain all of the parts from manufacturers. And can obtain best

possible fit of the prosthesis

Griffin Healthcare uses state of the art materials and componentry. This includes plastics, acrylics, polyester laminates, titanium, carbon graphite, aluminum and steel. The type of componentry used will be customised based on weight capacity and what is best for your optimal function. Insurance coverage also will determine what type of componentry will be used.

On average, most patients will wear a temporary prosthesis for 6 months to 1 year depending on how quickly the residual limb stabilizes.

Below knee amputee – 9% more energy than a non-amputee

Above knee amputee – 60% more energy than a non-amputee

Bilateral below knee amputee – 180% more energy than a non-amputee

Bilateral above knee amputee – 260% more energy than a non-amputee

Yes, your residual limb will shrink as the swelling goes down and will change from a bulbous shape to a thinner, cone like shape. There are various methods used for reducing the swelling that include wrapping the limb, and exercises.

Your liner should be washed every night. Make sure it is cleaned thoroughly to remove any layers of bacteria/dirt build-up. In addition, you should disinfect your liner once a week by cleaning it with rubbing alcohol.

Not necessarily, however, better and more efficient service can be provided when we see

patients in our Clinic. This allows us to access the tools in our lab and allows us to make adjustments to your prosthesis quickly and efficiently. If transportation and/or physical challenges are difficult for you, a home visit can be arranged by calling our Clinic.

The number of renovations to your home will depend upon your personal needs. Many patients will need a shower chair (Med Supply carries a number of options which can be found here), detachable shower head and grab rails for the bathroom. You may also need to consider a ramp for the entrance to your home.

Yes, there are amputees involved in just about every sport. If you have participated in sports prior to your amputation, you can probably continue afterwards. Many sports have organised programs for amputees. Please be sure and let your prosthetist know about your desire to play sports, so they can design your prosthesis with that in mind. Most sport-specific prosthetics are not covered by insurance, you may incur an out-of-pocket cost.

Speak with your Prosthetist about this, Griffin Healthcare will work with you to customize your prosthesis to your liking!