Orthopedic Technology - Medical Experts

In this article, we address the most important questions regarding corsets for children and adults, bodices, leg and arm prostheses, orthotics, and bandages:

Can you see the corset under clothing?

If children wear loose-fitting T-shirts or sweaters, it’s usually not visible.

How long do patients need to wear the corset each day?

This is determined by the treating physician. In most cases, however, it should be worn day and night for best results. Children may remove it only for personal hygiene.

Up to what age do they have to wear the corset?

Patients should wear the brace until their spine has finished growing. At that point, correction is no longer possible, and the condition usually stops worsening.

Does wearing the brace cause pressure marks?

Ideally, after a break-in period of about 2 weeks, the brace should not cause pressure marks.

While it is designed to exert a certain amount of corrective pressure on the spine, this pressure should not be uncomfortable.

What can patients do to combat excessive sweating while wearing the corset?

The following tips can help with excessive sweating:

• Wear a close-fitting T-shirt without side seams under the corset.
• Add large vents to the corset to allow for air circulation (Cheneau corset)

Is it possible to exercise while wearing a corset?

Many sports can be done while wearing a corset after an adjustment period. In general, sports that put compression on the spine are not recommended.

How often should a doctor check the corset?

An orthopedist should check the effectiveness of the corset at regular intervals of approximately 3 months.

When does the doctor need to replace the corset?

A new corset is necessary if there is significant growth in height and girth. In extreme cases, such as during a growth spurt, this may be necessary as early as 6 months.

How do you clean the brace?

Most corsets are waterproof and can be washed with mild soapy water.

How long does the patient need to wear the corset each day?

The doctor determines this based on the specific indication. In most cases, the patient wears the corset during the day and removes it at night.

How can the patient clean the bodice?

Fabric girdles should be hand-washed in lukewarm water. If possible, remove any metal parts beforehand.

A comprehensive consultation with an orthotist is essential here. The answers to these questions vary greatly from person to person, depending on the amputee’s age and overall health.

Can you play sports with a prosthesis?

With the proper training, almost any sport is possible in principle. Some sports require special prostheses. Prostheses designed for competitive sports are usually unsuitable for everyday use.

Can you shower with a prosthesis?

There are waterproof prostheses that are suitable for showering, as well as for beach vacations or the swimming pool. These are usually simpler, more affordable designs.

Everyday prostheses with extensive technical features are usually unsuitable.

Is it possible to wear different pairs of shoes?

If the heel height is the same, you can wear different ready-to-wear shoes. For unusual heel heights, you should consult with experts on a case-by-case basis to discuss feasibility.

How heavy is a leg prosthesis?

A leg prosthesis weighs a fraction of the amputated leg. However, because the muscles are now missing, it does not feel any lighter.

The weight depends on the amputee’s body weight and activity level. A below-knee prosthesis weighs between 1 kg and 2 kg.

A above-knee prosthesis weighs between 1.5 kg and 3.5 kg.

Who teaches the patient how to use the prosthesis?

The initial training is provided by the orthotist. Gait training is provided by specially trained physical therapists.

How does the prosthesis stay attached to the leg?

Above-knee prostheses are usually secured by a vacuum, while below-knee prostheses are secured by an undercut above the knee joint.

Alternatively, they are secured using tightly fitting silicone socket liners that are mechanically anchored within the prosthesis.

A bandage or straps are generally not required. A thigh wrap is usually not necessary for below-knee amputations.

How long does it take to make a prosthesis?

Once the doctor determines that the stump is weight-bearing, the prosthesis will be ready for a fitting in a few days.

How often does the patient need to visit the prosthetics workshop during the initial fitting process?

In most cases, an interim prosthesis is made first. This takes into account ongoing changes to the stump. Depending on the situation, you may need to have it adjusted more or less frequently.

Only after the stump has reached its final shape is the patient fitted with the definitive prosthesis.

When is an electronically controlled arm prosthesis used?

A consultation with an experienced orthotist is strongly recommended.

Is it possible to have a silicone cover for the arm prosthesis?

A silicone cover is not a problem for cosmetic prostheses. The more functions the prosthesis has, the more problematic the silicone cover becomes.

Can a prosthesis transmit sensory feedback (e.g., hot/cold)?

The technology exists, but the effort involved is disproportionate to the benefit.

Is there a universal prosthesis that meets the needs of work, leisure, and cosmetic requirements?

These requirements are often at odds with one another. That is why most patients have two or even three prostheses.

Are prostheses with cable pulls or hooks still in use today?

These prostheses are still suitable for many areas of daily life.

Will the orthosis fit into a ready-to-wear shoe?

It is often possible to wear ready-to-wear shoes. Depending on the width of the foot, it can be difficult to find suitable shoes.

Many orthopedic workshops offer special ready-made orthotic shoes for this purpose. Orthopedic shoes are rarely necessary.

Is the orthosis waterproof?

Due to the metal hinges usually present, the orthosis should only be used in wet areas to a limited extent. It is essential to lubricate the hinges after contact with water.

Do you need special shoes to wear insoles?

Lace-up shoes with a slightly wider fit and a slightly higher shaft are recommended. Insoles can be adapted to fit many types of shoes. Not recommended are loafers, pumps, high-heeled shoes, tight-fitting shoes, and shoes with a flat shaft. Very soft shoes are not recommended.

How often do patients need to replace their insoles?

When the supportive effect is no longer sufficient and foot discomfort begins to increase again.

Are soft or hard insoles better? It is generally believed that soft insoles allow for more muscle activity. However, experts must fit these very precisely to the shoe. They therefore only fit in similar shoes.

After how long should patients replace their compression stockings?

After six months of use, the compression significantly decreases and the stockings are worn out.

Does health insurance cover the cost of a replacement pair?

Health insurance companies cover the cost of a second pair only in exceptional cases and for patients with above-average sweating.