Summer is finally here. Across the country the temperatures and the humidity levels are on the rise. Every season presents unique obstacles for the limb loss community. The heat and humidity of summer often combine to create a perfect storm for residual limb volume fluctuations.
Traditionally donning and doffing prosthetic socks has been the only solution to combat residual limb volume changes. Managing socket discomfort with socks is contradictory as they tend to shift and bunch throughout the day, causing different but just as frustrating prosthetic issues. Excessive sweating, pinch sores and compromised suction are all implications of wearing prosthetic socks.
To accommodate for volume fluctuations and socks bunching, numerous adjustments to the device throughout the day are often necessary. This forces many amputees to constantly search for private areas to adjust their prosthesis. Not only is this frustrating, but it is inconvenient when activities are paused in the never-ending quest for temporary prosthetic comfort.
Until recently, amputees have been relegated to stashing prosthetic socks throughout their homes, offices, cars, purses and any other location they frequent in order to be prepared for inevitable volume changes. They have accepted wearing heavy fabric in the sweltering heat under the guise of finding comfort. They have made apologies as they slipped away to add or remove socks. At last, the sock dependence cycle has been broken!
With the development of the Infinite TT (below knee) and Infinite TF (above knee) Sockets by LIM Innovations, the need for prosthetic socks has become obsolete. Instead of carrying socks and struggling to figure out the correct ply needed to achieve comfort, adjustments for volume change can be made through the socket. The fully adjustable Infinite Sockets can be adjusted by the user quickly and discretely without the use of prosthetic socks, providing liberation from the inconvenience of having to store, carry and wear uncomfortable prosthetic socks.
With the Infinite Sockets, the patient is in control of their own comfort. Socket feeling a little snug? Relief is as simple as deflating the air bladder or loosening the Boa closure. Do you feel like you need a little more support in the socket? The socket can be tightened with a few clicks or with the tug of some Velcro straps. Finally a comfortable and individual fit is possible by adjusting the socket, not by padding the limb.
The fit of an Infinite Socket is as unique as the individual, which is why we custom fabricate each one in our San Francisco facility. After measurements are provided by the prosthetist, the socket is meticulously crafted and proudly delivered within 10 days for the TF and 21 days for the TT. Recognized as clinically valuable, the Infinite TT and Infinite TF adjustable sockets are covered by most major insurance policies.
This summer, we invite you to Ditch the Socks forever and discover the freedom that comes from wearing a fully adjustable socket. We encourage you to utilize our #DitchTheSocks hashtag across social media to share your journey. Whether you are an experienced LIM Legend or new to our technology, we are excited to share your experiences through our social platforms. Who knows, you may be featured in an upcoming blog!
Redefine comfort and stop accepting the inconveniences that come with the standard rigid socket. Your body changes throughout the day, and so should your socket. #DitchTheSocks this summer and rediscover comfort.