Approximately 2.1 million people in the United States live with limb loss. And among this population, many are enjoying water sports.
Goto Wonderfu to know more.
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.
● 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
Are you interested in learning more about waterproof prosthetic foot? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
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.
Can you go swimming with a prosthetic leg? Yes, being an amputee doesn't stop you from enjoying the water. At PrimeCare, we design custom prosthetics in Albuquerque & Las Cruces so patients can lead active lives. If you need a swimming prosthesis, we're happy to help.
But first, here's a brief primer on what you need to know about swimming prostheses and swimming as an amputee.
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that provides numerous physical and mental health benefits. It is particularly beneficial for strengthening the cardiovascular system, improving flexibility, increasing muscle strength, relieving pressure, and advancing circulatory functions.
Even if you have had an amputation, you can still enjoy swimming safely.
The water's buoyancy supports the body's weight, meaning there is no impact force on the residual limb. If you are new to swimming following an amputation, consider joining a special program for people with physical disabilities offered by recreation centers. Such a program can teach you modified swimming techniques and how to enter and leave the pool safely.
Most prosthetic limbs are splash resistant and can withstand stepping in a puddle and other minor exposures. However, swimming with a prosthetic leg can cause damage to the working components, particularly those that contain microprocessors and any metal parts that can rust.
Therefore, you should always check if your artificial limb is water-resistant. If not, you have options to consider. For instance, you can purchase a waterproof cover to slip over the prosthesis, forming a watertight seal.
However, the cover may be bulky, and the seal can break, by putting the prosthetic at risk of water damage. Another opportunity is to use an old prosthetic limb for swimming, knowing that it can deteriorate. This is the most comfortable, but only if you have an old prosthesis available.
If it's your first time swimming since your amputation, we recommend swimming indoors firstly. Visit a pool with railings, lifts, and zero-threshold graduated entry options. This will make it easier for you to enter and exit. There are a couple of variants available when it comes to swimming.
For below-knee amputees, waterproof covers provide a convenient and waterproof solution that eliminates the need for a separate prosthetic. However, this option is not accessible for above-knee prosthetics. If the seal is broken, the prosthesis still will be vulnerable to damage.
A swim prosthesis is designed to make it effortless for people to get in and out of the water. They are built with corrosive-resistant materials to protect the moving parts from water. Additionally, some of them feature extra traction on the foot to provide stability on slippery surfaces. Prosthetic limbs are designed for swimming and various water sports, such as surfing and diving.
While affordable, this option isn’t recommended, as it is uncommon for people to have backup prosthetic limbs that are in good condition and fit properly. The reason they are no longer in use is likely due to their age or lack of functionality.
Waterproof prosthetic legs offer the advantage of easy movements in and out of the pool with no need to worry about where to place them. Unfortunately, most insurance companies do not offer coverage. In addition, a prosthetic leg for swimming could make bending and straightening your prosthetic knee more difficult.
Individuals with limb loss may opt to leave their prostheses out of the pool and use wheelchairs or crutches to get in and out of the water. It is important to take care of your prosthetic limb by avoiding water, as it can cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your prosthesis. When using crutches or wheelchairs, be sure to practice caution. Crutches can be slippery and impede movement, and wheelchairs are more suitable for the beach.
With the right tools and a little determination, you can learn how to enjoy the thrill of the water and the freedom of motion that comes with swimming with prosthetic legs. Here's how to get the most out of swimming with a prosthetic leg.
At PrimeCare Prosthetics, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the guidance and support they need throughout amputation and prostheses. If you need guidance about getting a waterproof prosthesis or general advice, we can help.
Want more information on single axis knee joint? Feel free to contact us.