Robert,
I have changed many PTs thru the years to differant socket designs than
what they had been wearing. I have had great success and also great
failure!! But you never know until you try. Some of the PTs have worn
the same style of limbs for years and years, while others have not worn
them for so many years. I have not really found the longevity of the
current style of limb worn to be the deciding factor in the PTs
acceptance of the new, but more so the PT was looking for something
new,differant, or possibly better than what is presently being utilized
by the PT. If your PT fits the latter description, I think you have a
pretty good chance of change being accepted. But no gaurantees!!
My opinion, by all means forge ahead. After all, isn’t our job to try
and provide each PT with the best possible technology/limb to improve
his/her lifestyle, and function? The advice I would offer would be as
follows:
1. Explain in detail to the PT the socket changes that will occur;
differant pressures, differant post. seat, etc.
2. Explain in detail how the socket changes will improve;
comfort level, gait, etc. (whatever you feel is true & accurate)
3. Explain possible volume changes in stump and possible adjustments
to follow.
Getting the idea? Explain everything that you can think of to the PT so
that when he/she experiences them they will know what to expect and
hopefully not look at it as a negative. Communication is you best
friend!!
I would also try to make my check socket out of a material that can also
be affixed to a prosthesis so the PT could actually walk the limb and
give you some feedback before the definitive socket was fabbed. Set the
check socket as a prep and let the PT take it home ( if safe ) and
experience first hand what the changes will be. Also, if you expect
volume changes, let this socket work to your advantage.
Good luck and let all of us know how it turns out.
E.REED COLEMAN, C.P.
ADVANTAGE PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS
3821 SOUTHERN AVE.
SHREVEPORT, LA 71106
318.219.8800
318.219.8801 (FAX)
