Learning that your child will need a prosthetic device can be hard on your whole family. Whether your child needs a prosthetic device due to an illness, injury, or a condition that began at birth, know that your child still has a bright future ahead of them. These tips for transitioning to a prosthetic device can help your child cope and get used to their new normal.
1. Set Specific Rules
Children need to know what to expect and want to know what is coming. Whenever possible, inform your child about what is happening – the truth is often far less scary than the unknown.
![3 Tips for Helping Your Child Adjust to Their Prosthesis [infographic]](/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/162496-Tierney-Orthotics-and-Prosthetics_Approved_res.jpg)
2. Teach Proper Limb and Prosthesis Care
Giving your child some responsibility when caring for their limb and prosthesis can make them feel better about the situation. For limb care, help your child learn to:
- Wash their limb well and often
- Thoroughly pat their limb dry after washing
- Self-inspect regularly for redness and infected skin
For prosthesis care, teach your child to:
- Cleanse every part of their prosthesis that comes into contact with skin
- Check their prosthesis daily for proper fit
- Always have emergency supplies, like extra socks, on hand
3. Openly Communicate
Your child will have questions and concerns about wearing a prosthetic device. Listen to your child carefully, stay positive and encouraging, and let them know that there is a prosthesis that can help them participate in nearly any activity they want.