Some Tips...

Several people have written to me asking more about the sleeves that I'm wearing in the biking photo. (previous post) I've noticed since altering my prosthesis that my residual limb is much warmer in the socket. Now, don't get me wrong, the socket is often pretty warm, but with the carbon fibre 'skin' on the forearm, the socket is MUCH warmer, particularly during the seasons when I am not wearing a jacket. I am wearing sunsleeves, sold by Coolibar. They are known for selling clothing with sun protection. I have two sets of sleeves: a white paisley and a black paisley. They are easy to don and doff and easy to clean. I have found the 'sun sleeves' to be particularly helpful for two purposes. In the summer, I use a light-colored sleeve over the prosthesis and extending over my upper arm -It protects my skin from burning, and my carbon 'skin' from collecting to much heat so my socket is actually a little cooler. In the winter, I wear a dark sleeve in the same way. I truly don't notice my socket being cooler in the winter; I think it's warmer than without the carbon. One could use the coolibar sleeve over the residual limb and in the socket as well and it will likely keep the arm warmer in the socket during winter sports.

You can find this product at www.coolibar.com

Other products that are helpful to manage perspiration include an anti-perspirant made by Certain Dri, available in the pharmacy. If you are opposed to using too many chemicals, you can also use fabric with good wicking qualities, such as the titanium lines offered by Columbia, Avia, and UnderArmour to name a few. You can use a long-sleeved shirt of this material and twist it around the end of the residual limb (similar to a shrinker) and then fold it back onto the arm. Of course, you could also cut off the sleeve of a long-sleeved shirt and then use it the same way (but why ruin a shirt that you might actually wear over the prosthesis at some other point?!). You might find the material at a fabric store -or be able to purchase from the manufacturer directly to sew your own sleeve. Should you do this, be sure to wear it with the seam on the outside, and not against your skin!

 

UH OH...Summer is ...

Oh my goodness... It's AUGUST!! Where has the time gone?! I hope that you are all enjoying the summer as much as I am! I apologize (again!) for so very much time having passed since writing. Truly, we have been enjoying the amazing weather and the great activities that summer in New England offers. One of my favorites is biking. My husband I purchased new bikes this year. Let me tell you about mine... It's made by Specialized and has 21 speeds. This model is a hybrid style that can be used both on- and off-road. (We bought our bikes from Family Bike, East Longmeadow. The technicians there were fantastic about making my accommodations, offering suggestions and getting me on the road!) We had the rear brake lever and the rear sprocket shifter moved to the left handlebar so that I can more easily control the speeds, and more safely use the brake system. I have been practicing using my terminal device (the Adept, by TRS) to rotate the right handle grip. Although my system is not perfect yet, my adaptive strategies continue to evolve and this is the best set-up I've ever had. You will also notice that in addition to wearing my helmet (forget about fashion; safety first!) I also am wearing UPF 50+ skin protection sleeves (Coolibar, sold by the pair, multiple styles, colors) which protect my skin but also seem to keep my carbon fibre forearm from heating up, especially inside the socket. And I'm using a neoprene glove (Swede-O) with wrist strap to give my left hand and wrist extra support.

When we're not at work, enjoying family or riding our bikes, we're at the pool! We'll talk about swimming next!