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Tips for Trouble with Prosthetic Sockets

September 15, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Custom Prosthetic DevicesThere are many reasons why your prosthesis may be giving you trouble. Usually it has to do with your residual limb. If you allow yourself to get frustrated, you may tighten your muscles, which only makes the problem worse. So, just try to relax and follow these simple tips:

#1: If your residual limb is swollen, it may be because you are not wearing your shrinker sock overnight. Try putting your shrinker on for about half an hour and then try again.It could also be a result of your sock ply. The thicker the ply, the more difficult it may be to get the prosthesis on in the morning. If you usually sleep with a five ply sock, try wearing a three or four ply to make it more comfortable.

#2: If your prosthetic socket has a silicone liner with a locking pin, ensure that the pin is straight before putting on your prosthesis. If it is angled, it will not engage the mechanism and therefore will not lock.It is also possible for the lock release button to get stuck if dirt or other materials enter the hole where the pin goes.

#3: If your prosthetic won’t come off, do not panic. First always contact your personal physician or therapist for assistance. If it is after hours or you are traveling with your prosthesis, and you need to remove your prosthesis socket yourself, you first need to remove your residual limb from the suction liner.Get a cup of water and soap. Warm the soapy water, and then slowly pour it all around inside between the liner and your skin. Then, remove your residual limb by twisting the liner off very gently. If the liner still does not come off, you will need to make an emergency appointment immediately because your residual limb should not stay wet in the liner for very long.

#4: If the release button is broken, because it has fallen out or simply won’t work, try using a screwdriver or pliers to push where the button should be in order to release the lock. Then, contact professional limb and brace services immediately to get the button replaced.Remember that all prosthetic supplies, including covers, skins, shrinkers, suspension sleeves, and gel liners require a prescription for a reason. Make sure that every piece of your prosthesis is custom fit to your needs to avoid pain and discomfort.

Let the Experts at BioTech Help Today

Read more about proper prosthetic socket care at BioTech Limb and Brace.

Let our team help you improve your functionality and comfort with a custom designed prosthetic device today!

We specialize in custom prosthetic and orthotic devices. Contact BioTech Limb and Brace to make an appointment or  give us a call today to learn how we can help you recognize your possibilities.

Filed Under: Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices

Danielle Shares Her BioTech Experience

September 6, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Custom Prosthetic Devices

In 2006, Danielle Brooke was jetskiing with her middle school friends at Lake Martin during the summer. A tow rope used to pull a float was coiled up and left in the footwell on the jet ski.

Danielle was excited to be in the water and  stepped onto the jet ski and took off – without realizing that the rope was still in the well. The rope caught around her ankle, and due to the high speed, leading to her limb loss from the calf down.

During her stay at Children’s Hospital following the accident, Danielle met Eric at BioTech Limb and Brace. By August that same year, Danielle was walking on her new custom prosthetic leg.

Like many of our amazing and inspiring patiences, merely walking was only the start of her incredible journey and aspirations. She had her sights set on more.

Not long after receiving her prosthesis, Danielle was ready to jump into high school athletics – always having the heart, perseverance, and passion of a true athlete. To excel, she needed a running prosthesis.

Danielle Gets Her First BioTech Running Prosthesis

BioTech helped develop custom running prosthesis for Danielle that allowed her to join the school track team and run for two years.

To help Danielle get used to the new device, fellow amputees at the Lakeshore Foundation in Birmingham, Alabama talked her through the process, helped her adjust to the new lifestyle, and showed her how to run on her new leg.

By sixteen years old, Danielle was barrel racing with horses and realized that she needed to modify her current running prosthesis in order to get a better fit.

With her new leg, Danielle was simply excelling, she even joined her high school cheerleading team. With BioTech’s help, Danielle got a knee brace that increased the comfort and function of her running prosthesis to make it a better fit for her new love for cheerleading.

Throughout Danielle’s entire journey, the BioTech team has loved helping Danielle to recognize and achieve her possibilities with proper fitting and functioning prosthetic devices.

Realize Your Possibilities with BioTech Limb & Brace

Danielle has been with BioTech for nine years and most recently become the mother of an adorable six-month-old baby. She has gone from chasing after gold medals to chasing after her a little one.

To all of those who have suffered limb loss, she offers a few words of inspiration:

Life does not end just because you lose a limb. I’ve done way more after my accident than before with help from BioTech technology.

We are proud of Danielle and her accomplishments and are ecstatic that we have been able to be part of her incredible journey.

At BioTech, we treat all of our patients like family. Let us help you recognize your possibilities and achieve your dreams with a custom fitted prosthetic or orthotic device.

Filed Under: Patient Stories

Quin’s Inspiring Story

August 31, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Quin 1Meet Quin, a good-humored, baseball-playing, thirteen year old from Alexander City with an incredible attitude and heart. After being diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a cancer of the bones, Quin’s leg had to be amputated above the knee.

Brian Horton with BioTech, met Quin in Children’s Hospital while he was being treated with radiation therapy. After forming a personal relationship with him, Brian discovered Quin’s affinity for sports, particularly baseball. Quin’s mother shared videos of him helping local baseball teams with drills and Brian was inspired and was determined to help Quin continue to achieve his dreams and pursue his love for sports.

A Custom Running Prosthesis for Quin

Since Quin’s limb loss was above the knee, BioTech was met with the challenge of getting the prosthesis to fit and remain adjustable. Why? During and between radiation treatments the size and shape of Quin’s leg would fluctuate slightly, which required frequent readjustments to keep the prosthesis comfortable and allow Quin to continue functioning at an optimal level.

Brian knew that the right running prosthesis was essential to help Quin get back on the field, which was the ultimate goal. Brian worked with the BioTech team to develop custom-fit prosthetic device to provide Quin with utmost comfort and flexibility.

Using a shrinker for fitting (a compression sock), Brian measured the circumference of Quin’s leg and began to design the new running prosthesis as they waited for Quin’s sutures to heal.

The Ottobock running prosthesis was made in house at BioTech Limb and Brace, shaped like a J, made with carbon pylon, which was chosen due to its light weight.

Within hours of the first fitting, Quin was making his way up and down stairs and across the parking lot in his evaluation socket, getting used to the feel of a new running prosthesis. By August, a mere two months later, he was out and running around without any trouble.

artifical limbs alabama

Quin has become known at BioTech for his personality and perseverance. He’s even formed a relationship with another well-known BioTech patient, Noah Galloway, along the way. Noah invited Quin to watch him live in LA on Dancing with the Stars. There, he met celebrity basketball star, Kobe Bryant (and told him his favorite basketball player was LeBron James!). Bryant did not hesitate to tell Quin that he taught LeBron “everything he knows” – to which Quin replied, “Not everything.”

We are so very proud of how far Quin has come and are thrilled to have him as part of the BioTech family. He truly is an inspiration to all of us every single day.

The BioTech Advantage

At BioTech, we strive to make every person who walks in our door feel like family. Our goal is simple – to help people recognize and then achieve their possibilities!

Experience the difference of a proper fitting prosthesis today! Contact BioTech Limb and Brace.

Filed Under: Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices

Helpful Tips for Those Suffering from Limb Loss

August 17, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Prosthetic Devices

If you have suffered from limb loss, then we think it is important to understand that you are not alone! Although everyone has different experiences and specific situations that led to amputation, there is an amazing community that will be there to help you along the way.

BioTech Limb and Brace has put together some helpful tips for those dealing with limb loss to help you adjust. Check them out below.

The Feeling You Get Immediately After Surgery WILL Pass

One of the most important things to remember is that every amputee goes through the common stages of dealing with their situation. Many report waking up after the operation with a variety of feelings. Rest assured that the feelings of uncertainty, fear, and being overwhelmed will pass.

Turn “What If” Into Optimistic Thinking

Thanks to modern technology, living life as someone dealing with the loss of a limb has an absolutely amazing outlook. It is important that you try to combat negative and “what if” thinking with optimistic, positive outlooks. There are hundreds – no thousands – of incredible stories of amputees that are accomplishing their dreams – the same exact dreams they had before becoming an amputee. You can do it and reminding yourself that on a regular basis is important when you have experienced limb loss.

Seek Out Other Amputees

One of the best ways to see for yourself all of the incredible possibilities ahead of you is to engage with other amputees. Get tuned into your new community – there are amazing individuals who have been exactly where you are and would love to welcome you as part of the family.

When you’re dealing with limb loss, you are never alone. The community is absolutely incredible! Check out the Amputee Coalition website. Follow BioTech on Facebook and other social media platforms. Plug into community and regional events.

Additional Helpful Information

For additional information on adjusting to your new life, check out the links below:

  • Post-Op Amputation Self-Care Tips by BioTech Limb and Brace
  • Information for Lower Limb Amputees and Their Families by Ottobock
  • Traveling with a Prosthesis by BioTech Limb and Brace
  • Tips for Taking Care of Your Limb by Amputee Coalition

Filed Under: Amputation Care Tips

Advice for Traveling with a Prosthesis

August 14, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Prosthetics Traveling can be very exciting! As you plan for your relaxing trip, there are a few things that can help you when traveling with a prosthesis.

Security at an airport often causes the most complications, but there are other considerations to traveling with a prosthetic device. Read on to learn what you need to know before you go.

Helpful Tips for Traveling

It is helpful to know that any passenger traveling with a prosthesis has the right to be screened without removing it. Providing documentation of medical conditions, however, does not exempt any passenger from additional screening if it is required.

Pat downs, the metal detectors, and imaging tools are all ways in which passengers may be screened. Be prepared. TSA officers may ask you to lift clothing or remove a belt to see your prosthesis and/or test your prosthetic device via X-ray for harmful materials.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a help line called TSA Cares you can call to receive proper guidance on traveling with various needs, including travelers who have experienced limb loss.

When you are preparing to travel with a prosthesis, orthotic device, or other personal equipment, call TSA Cares up to 72 hours in advance for assistance.  You can speak to a representative who can assist you with particular questions.

Tips Before the Trip

Just like you do with everything else before your trip, make sure your prosthesis is in good condition before you leave for your trip. You don’t want any problems while you’re trying to relax. Inspect your suspension. Make sure the straps are not frayed.

Make sure everything has been cleaned well with soap and a washcloth. Look at any liners to check for gaps that may need glue or tears that may need more than that. Also, check for any rust or loose screws.

What type of weather and environment will you be visiting? Depending on your destination, you may want to take a prosthetic skin for protection. Keep some extra prosthetic socks and socket liners with you as well. Duct tape and glue, if they are small enough, may be helpful to keep around as well in case you need to make some minor repairs along the way. Don’t forget any creams or ointments you may use for comfort as well as any prescribed medication. Plastic bags or ponchos can be helpful to have as well to protect from water and sand if need be.

In the end, the most important thing is keeping in contact with your trusted prosthetics professional. They can help you in case of any emergencies and can give advice on the proper care while traveling with a prosthesis.

At BioTech, we ensure quality service always. Our team is here to serve you with professionalism and experience. Contact BioTech today to learn more about your possibilities.

Filed Under: Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices

Chad Bailey’s Story

August 6, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Chad Bailey’s life was changed 12 years ago when he lost his foot from the heel forward. He sought an orthotic device that would give him a comfort fit and make him feel like he had his foot again. Instead, he received a brace that was made of solid plastic and hurt so much that he couldn’t effectively use it.

Then Chad turned to BioTech, which built the second brace. Chad has been using the brace that BioTech created for him for 10 years now and says he couldn’t ask for anything better!

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Possiblities, Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices

BioTech Proudly Presents the Ottobock for Life Event August 24th

August 2, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Birmingham Event

We are so excited to sponsor the Ottobock for Life Roadshow this August 24 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens! The event will feature the newest products in prosthetics, including the most advanced technologies.

Come hear powerful stories of quality outcomes from people wearing the prosthetics themselves, and witness an appearance from a very special guest! It’s an event you don’t want to miss.

Ottobock is today’s technology leader in prosthetics.  Below we have listed just a few of the incredible things to look forward to at the Ottobock for Life Event.

The Michelangelo Prosthetic Hand

The Michelangelo Prosthetic hand is perhaps the most exciting prosthetic to be showcased at Ottobock for Life. This hand uses electrical pulses from the body to put the hand in motion. By attaching electrodes to the skin, you learn to flex a certain muscle in order to lift a finger, turn your wrist, grip a cup, and so on!

It is capable of seven grip types and provides a flexible wrist. It’s designed to work as close to the functions of a human hand as possible and was aesthetically designed to blend beautifully into the natural body image.

The C Brace

The C brace is an orthotropic mobility system that is built to deliver increased mobility. Patients who use the C brace are most excited about its ability to easily increase and decrease speeds, and gain greater knee flexion. Its greatest advantage is the ability to provide support throughout an entire gait cycle, versus the common lock and unlock prosthetic knee joints.

Extra Goodies

The Michelangelo Hand and C Brace aren’t enough? You will also get to learn more about microprocessor knees, and the Triton Smart Ankle.

Prior to the event there will be thirty minutes of delicious appetizers, beverages and mingling. Soon after, Ottobock’s clinical specialist, Byron Backus, CP, will be speaking on the technologies and functions behind their newest and most exciting prosthetics. Patients using their prosthetics will give personal testimonies and demonstrations.

All of this is great, but don’t leave too soon! Before the presentations are over, Noah Galloway from Dancing with the Stars will make an appearance. Following Ottobock for Life will be a cocktail reception and Meet and Greet with Noah himself!

Register before it fills up!

BioTech is so proud to be sponsoring such an educational and life changing event. Hearing straight from Ottobock specialists and patients is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

If you are interested in any of the technologies Ottobock presents, you can RSVP via email to schedule an appointment with BioTech for the following Tuesday and Wednesday to try them on yourself!

Filed Under: Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices

Using and Caring For an Ankle Foot Orthotic

July 31, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Ankle Foot Orthotics

Ankle foot orthotics (AFOs) are simple and yet revolutionary. They help improve movement for people everyday who suffer from a wide variety of conditions and impairments, and are instrumental in ensuring greater mobility.

To be effective, ankle foot orthotics need to be adjusted frequently and tended to with care. They need to be properly cleaned as well. Here is more information on AFOs, including how to care for them.

What Are Ankle Foot Orthotics?

Orthotics help improve the efficiency and functionality of joints as well as increase stabilization. Ankle foot orthotics are custom designed to stabilize weak muscles and help reduce pain in joints.

Typically, the orthoses are braces that surround the ankle and foot. They are L-shaped, made of metal and/or thermoplastic. They help control the movement of the foot and ankle and adjust for development.

How to Use and Care For Your Ankle Foot Orthotic

The best way to wear your ankle foot orthotic is by wearing a shoe with laces. Try using a shoehorn if you are having trouble putting it in your shoe. Wear a size that allows for the AFO to fit in comfortably. Wearing a long sock can help.

Make sure your skin is clean and dry when you put the brace on, but know that sweat is normal. Wearing athletic socks can help with sweating.

Putting on your ankle foot orthotic can feel awkward and uncomfortable at first, so check often for pressure points, red spots, and sores. Always contact your doctor or therapist immediately if you feel pain or if you notice any blisters or marks that do not go away. If you have grown, check that the brace still fits. If your foot has grown or the brace is too snug, take your orthotic in to a specialist. A minor adjustment may be necessary.

Beyond adjustments and fit which should be tended to by a professional, caring for your brace is relatively simple.

Cleaning your brace is important. Use a little soap and a damp wash cloth. Clean the thermoplastic sections at least once a week and lubricate the metal joints when necessary. Allow the brace to air dry or towel try. Do not put it in a drying machine unless you have asked your doctor if that is okay. Often the padding, metal, and plastic found in ankle foot orthotics should not come in contact with intense heat.

It is very important to attend your follow-up appointments and heed all instructions from your specialist.

Let the Experts at BioTech Help Today

Read more about the proper care for your ankle foot orthotic at BioTech Limb and Brace. Let our experts design a brace that will improve your functionality and efficiency while still providing you with utmost comfort. We specialize in custom prosthetics and orthotics and are here to offer the support you need.

Contact us today to make an appointment.

Filed Under: Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFO)

What Is Phantom Pain?

July 29, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

custom prosthesis Phantom pain is pain that can be felt by those who have lost a limb. The pain feels like it is coming from that limb that is no longer there. Phantom pain is most often experienced in amputee patients, not those already born without limbs.

Not long ago, doctors theorized that post-amputation phantom pain was psychological. However, it has now been identified as a physical problem. Experts have observed neural activity in the brain during these phantom pain episodes originating from nerves in the spinal cord and other limbs.

For many patients, phantom pain is post-surgery phenomenon that improves with time. However, for others the pain does not go away. To manage that pain, one should always seek professional advice from their doctor to receive proper treatment, in the form of medication and/or therapy.

Here’s more on phantom pain and how to handle it.

Symptoms and Causes of Phantom Pain

The symptoms of phantom pain are exactly that: pain. Throbbing, stinging, burning, shooting sensations from limbs that are no longer there constitute phantom pain.

Researchers are still unclear as to the cause of phantom pain, but with the help of diagnostic imaging scans it has become apparent that the brain can receive mixed signals from the nerves. The nerve ends in the area of the missing limb may send signals to the brain which trigger pain even if it is mild discomfort or just a touch. Sometimes, the brain may even reroute the nerve signals.

For example, sensory nerves in other parts of the body like the face may trigger phantom pain from a missing right leg. So that when you touch that part of your face, your brain registers that sensation as leg pain. It truly is a fascinating phenomenon.

How to Fight Phantom Pain

Often, amputees feel the most pain in the remaining body part or the stump. This pain can be extremely challenging to live with. However, it does usually fade with time, and it can be both prevented and treated. Phantom pain and stump pain tend to occur in the lower limbs (toes, feet, legs), and they are usually sparked by changes in the weather, pressure from other objects on the remaining body parts, stress, and poorly-fitting prosthetics.

Therapy techniques like massages, electrical stimulation through EMGs (electromyography), stump socks and proper skin care, as well as prosthetic fittings, can all help. Treatment focuses on how changing the way the sensations are represented in the brain. Seeing a physical therapist is often advantageous as well. Exercises, manipulation, and training can be good for your limbs in general and especially to deal with the pain.

With the right medication and physical therapy, this pain can be treated. To help prevent stump and phantom pain in the first place, getting a custom-fit prosthetic is beneficial. The right professionals can make sure your prosthetic fits well, provides you with comfort and convenience, and adds to your everyday functionality while also making sure that your body is not experiencing pressure and discomfort from the limb.

Contact BioTech Limb and Brace Today

BioTech customizes prosthetics to ensure your functionality and comfort. Our goal is to create limbs that fit you perfectly and provide you with both comfort and convenience. Contact BioTech today and recognize your possibilities!

Filed Under: Amputation Care Tips

The Lee George Story

July 20, 2015 by BioTech Possibilities

Hear Lee George’s story and how he turned to BioTech Limb and Brace for a custom prosthesis that allows him to ride his motorcycle!

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Possiblities

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Latest Blog Articles

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