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!