Blogger Filip has a brand new socket
All those times you stripped to your undies for your prosthetist are about to pay off: you’re finally getting to try on your new socket. Our blogger Filip recently got a new socket and shares the story of how he got there.
It’s me again, back with a brand new blog. You’ve had to be patient with me, but the time has finally come. I’m going to tell you all about the process of fitting and making my umpteenth new socket (I’ll admit, I’ve lost count).
Flexible socket
Since the size of my residual limb has a tendency to change, it was time for a new socket. This time, my prosthetist opted for a flexible socket, a silicone tube reinforced with carbon at several key spots. The main advantage of a flexible socket is that the material you sit down on is nice and supple, rather than being rock hard. It is also very comfortable, as well as being less likely to ruin your favourite trousers! Now, when my children sit on my lap, they’ve got something nice and soft to sit on.
Like a good pair of shoes
As with any socket, making a flexible socket is a rather time-consuming process. First, you start with a plastic check socket that you walk around with for a while. If the check socket fits well, the process of creating the actual socket can be set in motion. It’s a moment that never fails to excite. After all, a good socket is like a good pair of shoes: it makes your life a whole lot more comfortable. Besides, it’s your well-earned reward for all those times you had to strip down to your undies for a fitting!
Physical process
I am always amazed at how these things are made. It’s not the easiest thing you’ll ever do and, as a patient, the whole process is rather physical for me. You have to stand there in your underwear, while the prosthetist tries to perfect the fit of the plaster mould. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s just no avoiding it. Comfort comes at a price, I guess. Fingers crossed that I’ll be able to use this socket for a while, because I’ll have to go through the entire process again when it doesn’t!
Socket types
There are lots of different systems to choose from, but, personally, I prefer the vacuum and liner system. Other people hate liners and prefer systems that involve attaching the socket to your residual limb with a ribbon.
Here’s a top tip: discuss the options available to you with your prosthetist! I’d love to hear what system you prefer and how you feel about your socket. And I’m sure this goes for lots of you, too.
Thanks for reading my blog - I hope you have a lovely summer! Here’s hoping it doesn’t get too hot, because we all know what problems that can bring....