The Top Hiking Tips for Lower-Limb Amputees

The leaves are changing, the air is crisper, and pumpkin-flavored items are popping up on every menu. Fall is finally here, which means the woods will be bursting with color. Now is the perfect time to get out and appreciate nature.

If you enjoyed hiking through fall foliage prior to your amputation you may be able to continue to do so. Floyd Brace would like to offer you these fall hiking tips:

• Check in with your prosthetist before you go on a hike. They can make sure your prosthesis is fitted properly for the activity, and that all the components are working properly. The last thing you want is to have a malfunctioning leg in the middle of the woods.
• Have some company join you, especially if this is your first time out in the woods post-op. They’ll add to the fun, and be able to assist should any portion of your prosthesis malfunction.
• Wear lightweight, supportive shoes. Your sound limb takes on extra force during extraneous activity, and a good pair of shoes can help reduce the shock.
• Bring some extra fitting socks. Volume control is very important during times of increased activity, and you may find yourself adding or taking some off at various intervals of the hike.
• Take along an adjustable hiking pole. It can help with balance, as well as with creating power while you’re ascending hills or slowing you down when descending.
• Chafe guard or barrier cream can come in handy in case you have a specific friction point. While you may have no problem with your socket fit on a day-to-day basis, extra activity or uneven terrain can create pressure points that weren’t there before.
• Many people go on a hike to get away from it all. However, we still recommend that you carry your cell phone on you, just in case. You can always leave it on silent while admiring the changing of the season.

Floyd Brace loves helping amputees return to their active lives. With a little bit of preparation, you can enjoy everything that the fall weather has to offer. If you have any questions about how to get back to your favorite pastime, don’t hesitate to give us a call or set up an appointment.