Tips For Reducing Residual Limb Pain Around An Amputated Leg

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If you have lost your leg, then you may be concerned about being able to walk again once you heal. This is a real concern for many individuals and you may need to invest in a prosthetic leg to help you regain your mobility and independence. While prosthetic limbs can be a life-saver for some, you may deal with something called residual limb pain when you first start using your device. If you want to learn how to reduce your discomfort from this issue, keep reading:

Use Padding

In many cases, the tissue used to cover the bone around the end of the limb can be extremely thin. This is true for many different reasons and may be an issue with the way that the limb was removed or the surgery was completed to remove the leg from the body. Specifically, if the limb was not trimmed properly, then this can cause thin skin and some pain when pressure is placed against the end of the limb. 

In most cases, padding can be placed between the limb and the prosthetic to cushion the area. There are several different types of padding that can be used and include medical lamb's wool, breathable foam, high-density foam, moleskin with adhesive backing, and silicone pads. You may need to use a combination of pads to cushion the limb. 

Keep in mind that limb shrinkage will occur over time as you wear your prosthetic more and more. This likely means that padding will need to be added to the prosthetic where the leg meets the device. 

If for some reason padding does not assist with the discomfort, then a surgical operation may be required to trim the bone or to secure more tissue over the end of the limb so the prosthesis can be worn. 

Massage The Area

You may understand that limb massage is essential to the continuation of the limb healing process. Massage can also reduce your residual limb pain at the very end of the limb where it meets your prosthetic. The end of the limb is likely to be quite sensitive due to the formation of a neuroma. This is where a bundle or nerves collect at the end of the limb. The nerves can create a great deal of pain, but the area can be desensitized with regular massage.

Also, you can use finger tapping and percussion type movements on the end of the limb to reduce sensitivity and you can invest in an ultrasound or a vibration treatment. Acupuncture and TENS can be used as well, so speak to your physician about the best option for you based on your condition.

Contact a company like Northern Care Inc Prosthetics & Orthotics for more information and assistance. 


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