We want you to be able to live your life as fully as possible. That means being in a variety of environments, being as mobile as possible, and functioning in dry, wet, and humid conditions.
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Many of our prosthetics are marked ‘waterproof’. But what exactly does that mean?
Broadly speaking, the ‘waterproof’ label means that you can get your prosthesis wet without worry.
For activities when you're getting just a bit wet, you have total freedom. Walking in the rain, exploring in humid conditions, or taking a shower. The waterproof label has you covered.
Jump into the water for a swim, enjoy a paddle boarding adventure, or a dip in the sea. It's all possible because you're covered in all kinds of water including a freshwater lake, the briny sea, or a chlorinated pool.*
*Chlorinated water is not recommended for the Proprio Foot®
The waterproof label will also cover you in sandy or dusty conditions, within reason. So while trekking in a sandstorm all day may not be an option, it’s fine if you get caught on a windy walk on the beach!
After being in wet conditions, it’s important to dry off your liner, your sleeve (if you wear one), and your prosthesis.
Giving your liner, sleeve, and socket a good dry ensures the suspension stays strong. If you’ve been for a swim in chlorinated or salty water, or out in the sand and dust, give your prosthesis a clean with fresh water and then a dry cloth.
And you’re done! Your gear will be ready for your next adventure, wherever life takes you.
Approximately 2.1 million people in the United States live with limb loss. And among this population, many are enjoying water sports.
But what happens when they start using a prosthetic limb? Can they return to their previous lives and partake in water sport activities?
Many patients in need of a prosthetic frequently ask these questions. After all, whether they’re athletes or not, prosthetics can get wet in the rain or spilled with water. So, these artificial limbs can get wet easily.
What happens in this case? Are prosthetics waterproof and can handle being submerged in water?
In the past, prosthetic components were made of steel, a corrosive material that easily gets damaged when wet. Thus, people didn’t use prostheses in water. Otherwise, they get ruined.
However, as technology advanced, prosthetic fabrication evolved, and new materials became the base of artificial limbs. So, if your patients ask, are prosthetics waterproof? The answer is yes they can be!
Our central fabrication services produce specialized prosthetic limbs, spray skins, and more that are waterproof and water-resistant. Also, our world-renowned Grace Gauntlets and Grace Plates are durable and long-lasting, even if they get wet.
Here’s some information about waterproof prosthetics:
● Water-resistant prosthetics can repel water – So, when these prostheses are wet, during a rainstorm, for instance, they don’t get ruined. However, prolonged wetness can allow water to penetrate and ultimately cause the damage to the device.
● On the other hand, waterproof means the prosthetic is impermeable to water, and they can be submerged completely.
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● If some components of the prosthesis are not waterproof, patients can use protective covers to protect the device.
● Protective covers can also help prolong the life of the prosthesis and maintain or restore its shape and tone, making it appear more realistic.
● Whether a prosthetic is waterproof or water-resistant, removing it when bathing is recommended so the residual limb can be cleaned.
Whatever type of prosthesis, the most important thing is that a professional prosthetist is consulted to get the perfect one for their needs and lifestyle.
It’s important to discuss one of the most frequently asked questions about artificial limbs: “are prosthetics waterproof?” But now that you know the essential details about waterproof prostheses, the next question is, “can they also be used underwater?”
The answer is yes, in certain circumstances. Athletes, especially swimmers, will be happy to know that there are many activities they can do while wearing an artificial limb.
Here are some of them:
● Kayaking
● Paddle boarding
● Snorkeling
● Swimming
● Wakeboarding
● Water skiing
Aside from water sports, people wearing prostheses can participate in different activities, such as running and bicycling.
However, before your patients get their prostheses wet during water sports and other activities, it’s crucial to remember these tips:
1. A prosthetic foot can get lodged with sand when swimming in the ocean. Your patients will need a professional assessment and cleaning when this happens. Otherwise, they risk damaging the artificial foot.
2. Chlorine and salt water are corrosive substances for prostheses. When exposed to these substances, patients must thoroughly rinse them.
3. New prosthetic technology involves electronic components, which can be waterproof.
Getting back into water sports or any activity can be challenging for patients who lost a limb. However, it’s not impossible to enjoy the things previously done and loved, especially when they have the right prosthesis, ample support, and professional guidance.
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