A researcher at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System developed a Prosthetic Sock Management Tool (PSMT) to help veterans better control their prosthetic sock needs related to residual limb volume fluctuations throughout the day. The 26 VA amputation clinics with amputation rehabilitation coordinators are receiving the full toolkit. Locations with no coordinators receive the mountable infographic upon request.
Billie Savvas Slater, a research health science specialist, innovation specialist, and senior research study coordinator for the Minneapolis Adaptive Design and Engineering Program, developed the tool.
The PSMT consists of several components, including a multi-zippered bag with three pouches for storage of socks of different thicknesses, an infographic on proper sock usage and care, instructional videos, and reminders for fit checks.
Because there was no existing education protocol like it, Slater’s infographic poster is displayed in the VA’s prosthetic clinics.
After making prototypes at home, Slater met with clinicians to get feedback as a basis to apply for support through the Innovators Network (iNET) Spark-Seed-Spread Innovation Investment Program in 2018.
