September brings the season of fall! Let the only thing falling be the leaves (not us!) Fall, the time when the leaves change, and the air begins to have that feeling of crispness to it can also be the time for one last heat burst, called Indian Summer. The days start to get a little darker minute-by-minute each day, until we “fall back” on November 7 and get that extra hour of sleep.

Fall is the time for a tune-up before old man winter arrives. Take time to start preparing for the winter weather and the challenges it brings to limb difference communities. Call to schedule an appointment with your practitioner for a checkup on your device, your foot for signs of wear and tear, sleeves and liners. You want to have a good fitting socket as well as fresh supplies to carry over you until spring!  

Just remember to see your primary care doctor, and set up a face-to-face appointment either in their office or, many are continuing with telehealth visits. Ask your practitioner as they can help set you up with a clinic appointment!

Your insurance requires you to see your doctor for a face-to-face evaluation so they can write a prescription for replacement sockets, sleeves, liners, socks or an evaluation for a new prosthesis (socket). If you are up in sock ply wearing or if you feel like your socket is just getting uncomfortable, it may be as simple as adding padding by your practitioner, but you may also need a replacement if your limb has shrunk and changes to the shape of your limb have occurred over time.

It is critical for your limb to have hole free, tear free, clean supplies. Insurance often can replace these items and help you prevent skin irritations, blisters or wounds.

Have your foot and foot shell looked at, as well. If you have a microprocessor foot, knee or arm it is very important to have your device looked over to access anything that may need to be repaired or replaced.  Do not wait until it breaks!

Taking these precautions can help you minimize the need to travel in snowy and cold weather, or be out on slippery surfaces when ice presents itself. Speaking of winter weather, when the weather turns, transportation really can become an issue for driving yourself, or if you use MTA. There can be delays in picking you up at your home and delays returning home. Another thing to keep in mind would be that those deductibles will kick over to a fresh start come January 1, so plan ahead!

I hope these tips answer any questions on the importance of a fall tune-up. Preparation is key to making the most of your visit with your prosthetist.

Quote for the month:

“Plan, Prepare, Prevail: Expect The Unexpected.” - Author unknown

These tips are informed suggestions. If you do not feel comfortable with them, please do not attempt them. Instead as always contact your medical professional or your prosthetist for help and advice. 

If you have a question for me about living as an amputee, ask! And if I don’t know the answer, I will find it for you, and I will leave no stone unturned to help you find your own personal new normal. If there is a topic you would like me to feature please let me know! I want us all to grow strong together.  Email me at Dawn@dankmeyer.com. This email is not secure, so if you wish to keep any specific health information private, you should call us!

Dawn Miranda joined Dankmeyer, Inc. almost two years ago as a Prosthetist Assistant after relocating from San Antonio, TX.  To read more about Dawn on our Clinical Staff page, click here.