Today in the United States, there are 1.9 million people living with the loss of limb. Each year 185,000 people undergo an amputation, and by 2050 an estimated 3.6 million Americans will be amputees. To meet the needs these realities pose there have been amazing developments in the technology and development of prosthetic limbs and other orthotics, and in prosthetic service. Every year custom prosthetics improve, and there are advances in prosthetic service that allow users to do more with their artificial limbs. To get the most from them, thought, they must be cared for well. Here are five tips for getting the most from your prosthetic limbs:

Cleanliness is Essential

One of the downsides of any prosthetic leg or other limb is the possibility of bacteria or fungus growth in the socket, due to the presence of sweat and the lack of air. If the limb is cleaned and thoroughly dried at least once a day, and more often if you?ve exercised heavily, you can avoid most problems. When you?re cleaning the prosthetic is the time to carefully investigate it for any problems, and your residual limb for any usual redness or tender spots.

Make Sure You?re Helping Out Your Limb

You need strong muscles and good coordination to use your new limb effectively, so you can?t do better than to do stretching and strengthening exercises regularly. The more you do this, the more comfortable you?ll feel; and the more you?ll be able to get out of your limb.

Always Get the Right Help

Prosthetic service is essential to making sure you use your new limb correctly and get the most from it, and to keep it in good service and repair. This is especially important if you ever hear any odd clicking or squeaking noises, or if you?re having trouble making the prosthetic do what you want. You should never hesitate to ask any question you have about the artificial limb or your situation. It might be wise to write down questions whenever they occur to you so you can ask them when you go in for prosthetic service.

Have the Right Liners

Many times a prosthetic sock or liner is recommended for wearing over the residual limb. If you should be wearing them, it?s important to have plenty so you can change them out during the day as needed. Most people find that the size of their residual limb decreases through the day, so that they may need to add an extra layer of a thin sock, or substitute a thicker sock, in order to keep the perfect fit. Few things will be more frustrating than an ill-fitting device, so to get the most from it make sure you have enough of the right liners recommended for your situation.

You need the right prosthetics for enhancing mobility, and custom prosthetics are valuable and sophisticated tools. Make sure you?ve got the right one for you and are taking the time to keep it in good repair.