Anyone might find winter challenging because of the lengthy, dark evenings, snow, cold, and hazardous driving and walking conditions. It can be more difficult for below-the-knee amputees to navigate snow and ice since they are unable to feel one or both of their lower limbs. Summers, on the contrary, can turn out to be equally difficult, with challenging like sweating and smell problems. The hazards of extreme weather are undoubtedly substantial, especially when you consider that many amputees are elderly persons for whom a fall might be very hazardous.
As a result, they require proper guidelines and tips to make their way through the extreme temperatures without getting injured. One may also get some help from any reputable and specialized orthopedic mobility solutions and make things easier for themselves.
That is why, we have gathered a list of the effective tips for safely navigating through situations that test even the most sure-footed. They help the amputee to improve safety and confidence under erratic weather situations. Continue reading to know more:
- Put on The Proper Footwear
The key is traction. Your best chance is to wear high-quality winter boots or shoes with sturdy rubber soles that are made to grip. Consider cleats for even greater security. Make sure your prosthesis is correctly aligned to any variation in heel height, and give yourself some time to adjust to any clearance variations you may encounter.
- Keep Warm
If you’re accustomed to covering your residual limb, the cold weather might easily aggravate its discomfort and irritation. When you leave the house and enter a chilly environment, you should always wear your prosthesis. Frostbite first affects the extremities, so it’s important to keep your body warm and insulated in cold weather.
To do this, you should dress in layers, wear wool or fleece, waterproof clothes, and appropriate footwear. It will be simpler to move around if you keep your entire body warm. This will help reduce stiffness in other areas of your body.
- Get Help (if needed)
Considering the additional difficulties of negotiating winter circumstances, it can make sense to use crutches or a cane with a rubber tip to add extra stability.
- Make a Plan
Understand the predicted weather and plan your route accordingly; certain roads and sidewalks will be cleared before others. When you do venture outside, be prepared to avoid hazardous locations like steps, slopes, and ramps. When you are away from home, always have an extra pair of winter shoes on hand. It’s impossible to predict when Mother Nature will decide to decide to cover the ground with a few (or more) inches of snow simply to spice things up.
- Take Charge of the Environment
Look for any paver, asphalt, or stair sections on the pathway that could need to be repaired. Remove any snags or trash. Do your steps become particularly slick in the winter? Setting up a temporary ramp might be a wise preventative step. Additionally, keep the regions around your home clear of snow and ice by employing a snow removal service.
- Change Your Stride
It is preferable to reduce your stride and walk with very flat feet when you are on snow or ice. Long strides make it such that your prosthesis makes acute heel contact with the ground, which reduces your traction. A flat foot increases grip by allowing more of the shoe’s sole to make contact with the ground.
- Utilize Your Prosthesis to Your Advantage
Depending on your level or type of exercise, a few little changes might have a huge impact. With addition, advanced assistive gadget technology exists that can aid in warming and improved navigation. If you enjoy winter activities, think about getting a unique prosthesis.
- Always Remain Vigilant
The majority of falls are caused by brief inattention. Make safely negotiating the terrain your full-time job when you are outdoors in wintery circumstances.
- Keep it Dry
Clean your residual limb, liner, and suspension with a dry cloth (if you wear one). Change to a new lining if you have one in your bag. Before putting the one you just took off back in your luggage or putting it back on, wash and completely dry it. Not only is a lot of perspiration unpleasant, but it also serves as a breeding ground for bacteria and germs.
- Antiperspirant
Skin disintegration is more common in new amputees, especially if your incision site is still healing. But your doctor can suggest an over-the-counter or prescription antiperspirant for you to use. Some must be applied overnight while others are sprays that are administered right before putting the liner. All-day long, antiperspirants can reduce sweating. As well as asking your prosthetist if the product will work with the sort of liner you use, ask your doctor for the right product for you.
A Final Word
The best course of action or solution for you comes with the right guidance. Consulting Advance Medical Care Dubai can help you in this regard and answer any of your queries and concerns regarding the summer heat and frozen winters. So follow their instructions, make your way through the extreme temperatures and have fun!
