How do you care for an amputation stump?
Gently wash your stump at least once a day (more frequently in hot weather) with mild unscented soap and warm water, and dry it carefully. If you have a prosthetic limb, you should also regularly clean the socket using soap and warm water.
How long does it take for a stump to heal after amputation?
The wound itself will take anywhere from four to eight weeks to heal fully, but you will likely only remain in the hospital for up to 14 days.
How do you relieve stump pain?
) may have poor circulation in their stump, which can be difficult to diagnose. If there is no medical disorder causing the pain, massaging and light tapping combined with elevating the residual limb may help relieve the pain. If this is ineffective, mild painkillers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can be used.
How do you desensitize an amputated leg?
Touch and desensitization Desensitization can help. This involves massaging, rubbing, and tapping the end of your residual limb. Start with a light, gentle touch. As your tolerance improves, slowly increase pressure.
How do you massage a residual limb?
Massage: Early massage of the residual limb will help develop tolerance to both touch and pressure. Massage can be performed through your compression bandage or sock. A soft, gentle kneading motion works best, applying gentle pressure over the entire limb, including the sutured area.
Why do you elevate a stump after amputation?
Wrap the stump when it’s elevated to prevent edema and vascular stasis. Follow your facility’s policy for replacing the bandage, such as every 2 to 4 days or sooner if it becomes soiled. Help the patient perform range-of-motion and muscle-strengthening exercises.
Does wearing a prosthetic leg hurt?
Even when fitted properly, it takes some time to get used to the sensation of taking weight through your residual limb. While some initial discomfort can be anticipated as you get used to a prosthesis, pain is not an anticipated part of the process.
Do you elevate a stump after amputation?
Elevate the stump for the first 24 to 48 hours. Move and turn the patient gently and slowly to prevent severe muscle spasms. Reposition the patient every 2 hours, turning the patient from side to side and prone, if possible. Lying prone helps reduce hip flexion contractures.
How are stump dermatoses treated after an amputation?
Treatment of amputation stump dermatoses Treatment of stump dermatoses depends on careful evaluation to establish contributing factors. Powders and unperfumed antiperspirants can be used to reduce sweating. Bacterial infections are treated with antiseptic washes, antibiotics.
Why does the skin on the stump of an amputee change?
STUMP EDEMA SYNDROME. The pigmentary changes so often seen on the distal portion of the stump of amputees is due to hemosiderin or blood pigment deposited within the distal stump skin ( Plate 7. ). It is thought that this disorder is vascular in origin, a venous and lymphatic congestion producing edema and hemorrhage.
What can an amputee do with his residual limb?
Nowadays, many amputees would like not only to walk, but also to run and play sports. To meet this higher functional demand, many patients living with an amputated limb are exploring if lengthening their residual limb will enable them to live more active lives.
Who was the motorcyclist who had her leg amputated?
Tahlor, 26, took the brave decision to have her leg amputated despite the best efforts of doctors to save her leg. (Picture: Casey Withers Photography/Tahlor Self) A motorcyclist whose leg was amputated after a horrific crash has become a model to show off her stump with pride.