Prosthetic Pearls: Solutions to Thorny Problems

Postamputation pain, residual limb-socket interface problems, and skin disorders occur frequently in lower extremity amputees. The team providing care to this patient population often is challenged in rendering a correct diagnosis and providing appropriate management for these problems. Diagnostic and therapeutic tips that have been used by the staff of the prosthetic program at the University of Michigan Medical School during the past four decades are presented. Easily mastered clinical techniques and simple treatment options are suggested to aid the practitioner in addressing these common problems.