Caring for Your Prosthetic Hand
Caring for a prosthetic hand is more than routine maintenance—it must stay reliable, comfortable, and ready to support your daily activities. Whether you rely on a traditional model or advanced robotic hand prosthetics, consistent care can significantly extend its lifespan and enhance your overall experience.
The Durrett's Orthotics & Prosthetics team reviews the following tips with every prosthetic hand we sell to clients: We prioritize comfort, functionality, and long-term satisfaction.
Cleaning and Hygiene for Hand Prosthetics
Keeping prosthetic products clean is vital to prevent damage and maintain hygiene.
- Use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean the exterior, removing dirt and debris.
- Avoid submerging the device in water, which may harm the mechanical or electronic components.
- For robotic hand prosthetics, keep all joints and moving parts free of residue that might impair movement.
- Clean the liner regularly, as it comes into contact with your skin and can accumulate sweat or bacteria. A gentle antibacterial cleanser is ideal for this; let the liner dry completely before reattaching it.tern.
Inspection and Maintenance of Hand Prosthetics
Inspect your prosthetic hand frequently to identify any wear or other issues. Check the connections, screws, and moving parts to ensure everything is secure. For robotic hand prosthetics, pay attention to the wiring and electronic elements.
Contact your prosthetist if you notice:
- Frayed wires or loose connections.
- Unusual noises when the prosthetic is in use.
- Reduced functionality.
Proper Use and Handling of Prosthetic Hands
Using your prosthetic hand within its designed capabilities prevents unnecessary wear. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat, moisture, or excessive pressure. Robotic hand prosthetics often have specific usage guidelines; follow these closely to prevent damage to their sensitive components.
Finally, store your prosthetic hand in a safe and dry place when not in use. A dedicated storage bag or case can protect it from accidental damage or environmental exposure.
Skin Care and Comfort
The skin that comes into contact with your prosthetic hand may experience friction or pressure. Regularly inspect your skin for redness, blisters, or irritation. Keeping your skin clean and moisturized can help prevent discomfort.
If irritation occurs, consult your prosthetist for advice. They may recommend adjustments to the fit or a different liner material for improved comfort. Proper device alignment is critical for reducing stress on your skin.
Tips for Extending a Prosthetic Hand’s Longevity
Hand prosthetics are significant investments, so we emphasize these extend their lifespans:
- Consistently remove dirt and sweat to keep your prosthetic hand in good condition.
- Use a cover during messy tasks to shield the device from potential harm.
- Schedule routine appointments with your prosthetist for thorough inspections and adjustments.
- Do not use your prosthetic hand to carry objects heavier than its designed capacity.
Contact Us for Hand Prosthetics Today
Our experienced team members understand the importance of a well-maintained prosthetic hand. We’ll help you choose the best style and fit and service your hand prosthetic as needed.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and we’ll help you achieve greater comfort and functionality with your prosthetic hand.
We are located in Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN, and serve clients throughout
Kenton County and Boone County, KY; Dearborn County, IN. Contact us for more information.
