Instructions for Wearing a Limb Protector Physical Therapy
1. Apply appropriate dressings to your leg- (may not be needed if your incision is fully healed)
a. Cover your incision with a non-stick dressing.
b. Hold the dressing in place by wrapping with gauze.
2. If provided to you, apply the shrinker sock over the limb.(not everyone will receive a shrinker sock)
3. Apply a prosthetic sock. These socks come in different thicknesses called “ply”. They are color coded based on the thickness. Start with a thin sock. Wear clean prosthetic socks everyday. The sock can be cleaned. Follow the instructions listed on the packet.
4. Apply the protector over the sock.
a. If it is loose then remove and add another sock until it fits snugly.
b. You may need to replace the thin sock with a thicker one to make the protector fit properly.
c. If you cannot get it all the way on, then remove socks until it fits properly.
d. Be sure it is on the correct way: The front of the protector should be marked with an “F” or “FRONT”.
5. Place the thin stocking over the protector and secure in place with the strap with Velcro. The strap should be above your knee.
6. Remove the protector every 2 hours and check the skin on your leg for pressure areas. Do this for a day each time you change the number of socks or get a new protector. Leave it off until the redness goes away.
Do not wear the protector if redness develops and does not go away for 30 minutes.
Do not wear the protector if any blisters appear on your leg or if your incision begins to open up. Call your doctor or nurse.
7. When you no longer have enough socks to provide a good fit, then it is time for a new protector to be made. If you need more than 10 ply socks to make it fit, it is time for a new one.
Do not continue to wear the old protector if it is too loose. This can result in injury to your incision.
Do not wear protector at night. You may wear a knee immobilizer at night if your therapist has instructed you to do so.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 07/11/2011
Copyright © 07/11/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6592
Print Health Fact For You