Support for children and young people with limb differences and their families

Hygiene and residual limb care

It is really important to maintain the health of your child’s residual limb (sometimes referred to as a ‘little limb’) to prevent potential health problems.

Preventive measures to keep a residual limb healthy

You can help your child to avoid problems with their residual limb by helping them to look after it properly:

  • wash prosthetic liners daily with a mild non-fragrant soap
  • change and wash stump socks daily – more so in the warmer months
  • be aware of perspiration building in the socket, bacterial or fungal infections, pressure or friction
  • check the health of your child’s limb regularly
  • don’t shave or wax residual limbs as it could cause ingrown hairs.

Common skin problems that come with limb loss

Some common skin disorders experienced by those with limb loss include:

  • general irritation or rashes
  • dermatitis or allergies related to cleaning agents, prosthetic liners, swelling
  • cysts or irritation resulting from rubbing of the prosthetic limb against skin
  • scar tissue due to wound healing
  • breakdowns resulting from bacterial infection.

Contact if your doctor or prosthetist immediately if you have any concerns or notice any changes.