Being able to manage volume variations in the residual limb adequately is essential for comfortably and safely wearing a prosthesis.
Size variations of the limb can have a negative impact on the fit of the prosthesis and can cause skin irritations, making it difficult to keep wearing the prosthesis.
The natural variations in the limb volume through the course of the day are due to variations in fluid retention. Many factors can influence these variations, including the degree of physical exertion or the swelling that can typically accompany the post-operative period.
Using different thicknesses of prosthetic socks is a simple way to manage the volume changes that occur throughout the day, ensuring that the patient's fit is constantly comfortable.
Having a set of socks in a variety of thicknesses is highly recommended for patients so they can handle any and all changes in residual limb volume. Having a complete set allows the patient to change them and wash them daily, giving them time to get their original shape back as the fibers regain their elasticity.
Changing socks often and using the proper combination of thicknesses helps guarantee the wearability of the socket, which is fundamental to the health of the residual limb and for the overall well-being of the wearer. In addition, the correct use of prosthetic socks extends the life of a prosthetic liner by reducing the amount of friction it is exposed to.
If the patient is unable to manage the variations in residual limb volume just with the use of prosthetic socks, they may be experiencing a “long-term” variation in volume. This is a frequent phenomenon among new amputees in the post-operative phase when the limb is still stabilizing. Still, it can also occur much later on due to weight gain or loss, for example, or a change in the muscular structure of the limb itself.
How and when to wear prosthetic socks
Excessive movement of the residual limb within the socket or the fact that the limb can be inserted into the socket without resistance could indicate the need to compensate for variations in volume.
The prosthetic sock should be worn over the prosthetic liner.
More than one sock may be worn at a time to achieve the desired thickness.
Sock thickness is measured in plies (1, 3, and 5 ply). Therefore, should you need, for example, a 4-ply thickness, you obtain it by wearing a 3 ply over a 1 ply.
By the same token, it is important to pay attention to signs that the patient needs to reduce the thickness of their socks, particularly when there is a complete lack of contact with the distal end of the socket. In this case, sock layers should be removed until a correct fit is obtained.
ALPS prosthetic socks
ALPS offers a wide range of prosthetic socks in 3 different thicknesses (1, 3 and, 5 ply), in 3 sizes (Narrow, Medium, Large), in 4 lengths (Extra short, Short, Regular, and Long), and with or without a distal hole.
They are available in either single packs or the practical ALPS Socks Bundle Set. The Bundle Set includes several socks in the size and length but in different thicknesses to allow the patient to handle variations in limb volume with ease and to be able to change them daily.
Choosing the best sock to suit the patient's needs is easy with ALPS socks’ color-coded thickness indicator: blue for 1-ply; yellow for 3-ply; green for 5-ply.
ALPS prosthetic socks are light and soft, extremely comfortable with a perfect fit. They are made with technologically advanced fibers, highly effective in moisture management, that wick away perspiration so it can easily evaporate. This advanced fabric means that socks maintain their original quality for a long time without getting misshapen or matting up.
Click below to learn more about ALPS' Prosthetic Socks.
See also:
ALPS Gel Formulas and Fabrics Overview
The Clinical Minute: ALPS Prosthetic Sleeves Overview
The Clinical Minute: ALPS Valve Integrated Pump (VIP) Overview
