Category: Prosthetic Care

Getting a prosthetic limb is a big step in your life, and it helps to know what to expect along the way. At South Beach Prosthetics, we help you every step of the way, from your first evaluation to the day you take your first steps with your new prosthesis. Every patient is different, but knowing what to expect can help you feel less anxious and more focused on healing, making progress, and becoming independent.

Beginning with Your Evaluation

A full evaluation is the first step in your prosthetic journey. During your first visit, our team will ask you many questions about your health, lifestyle, daily activities, mobility goals, and medical history. This first talk is about more than just filling out forms. It helps us suggest prosthetic options that will best fit your lifestyle and goals.

We carefully look at your residual limb before even considering casting it. We look for swelling, sensitive spots, and bones that stick out because a well-fitting socket starts with a limb that is calm and stable. We’ll help you get the swelling down comfortably before we take any measurements if your limb is still swollen or changing.

Before the process of making a prosthetic can move forward, insurance companies may sometimes need to give their permission first. If that’s the case, your first visit might only be for evaluation and planning. We set up your casting appointment as soon as we get confirmation of your authorization and your limb is ready.

Casting and Measurements

The next step is casting, which you can do once your residual limb has reached a steady volume and your insurance has been checked. We make a physical cast of your residual limb and take exact measurements. These measurements are very important because they will be used to make your custom socket, which will be shaped to support weight and movement comfortably. We measure your non-amputated leg to ensure the prosthetic is the right height and balance.

For comfort, stability, and function, a well-made socket is essential. We can start making a diagnostic or test socket once we have the exact shape of your limb. This check socket lets us see how well the prosthesis fits and how well it lines up before it is finished.

Initial Fitting and Alignment

 

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The test socket comes to life on your second visit. This “check socket” is usually made of clear plastic that was made from your first cast. The clear material lets your doctor see how your limb fits inside and how the weight is spread out.

We also ask that you bring the shoes you plan to wear most often with your prosthesis to this appointment. This helps make sure that your alignment and walking patterns are correct. You will walk between two parallel bars while wearing the check socket so that our team can check your height, balance, comfort, and gait. We change the alignment if necessary to make you feel more stable and help you walk better.

Some patients need to go to more than one check socket and fitting visit. This is what we thought would happen. These steps let you make changes and fine-tune things so that your final prosthesis will fit and work well in everyday life.

Fitting and Delivery

Delivery day is the last step before you get your prosthesis. You and your practitioner will be sure that the test socket fits perfectly. You will get your custom prosthesis and a pair of prosthetic socks during this visit. These socks help you get the right fit as your limb changes size.

Your doctor will teach you how to put on your prosthesis and adjust for volume changes by adding or removing socks. Don’t expect to wear your first prosthesis all the time right away. We suggest starting with short periods of time wearing the item and then slowly increasing the time as you get used to it and feel more comfortable.

Early Use and Follow-Up Care

Once you begin using your prosthesis, follow-up care becomes a priority. During the early days of wear, check the skin on your residual limb often for redness or irritation. Redness that fades after removing the prosthesis over a broad area is typically normal, but a small spot of pressure that persists may indicate a need for adjustment. In that case, reach out to your practitioner as soon as possible.

We strongly recommend first-time prosthetic users engage in physical therapy. A physical therapist helps you learn how to walk, balance, and perform daily activities with confidence and stability. Therapy is an important part of lifelong success with your prosthesis.

Your practitioner will schedule a follow-up visit about one to two weeks after delivery to discuss how things are going and address any concerns. If you begin experiencing discomfort before that appointment, call our office to arrange an earlier visit.

It’s important to remember that if discomfort arises, it often relates to changes in the residual limb rather than an issue with the prosthesis itself. As your limb heals and changes, the fit inside the socket can shift. Adding or removing prosthetic socks often helps, but calling your practitioner ensures you make the right adjustments.

Coordinated Care and Support Services

At South Beach Prosthetics, we work with your doctors, physical therapists, home health providers, and even your family to make sure you feel supported every step of the way. We know that getting to appointments can be hard sometimes, so we offer free rides to all of your appointments, including hospital visits, doctor visits, rehab sessions, outpatient clinics, and prosthetic fittings. You don’t have to worry about logistics with this service; you can focus on getting better.

Our team also offers in-home care, so you can get help when you need it in the comfort of your own home. 

Your New Beginning

From the first evaluation to taking your first steps with a custom prosthesis, South Beach Prosthetics is committed to your success. We use state-of-the-art technology, including advanced casting and measurement tools, to ensure your prosthesis reflects your goals, lifestyle, and comfort needs. Our team of highly trained professionals is here to support you, educate you, and advocate for your best possible outcome.

Every step of the journey matters. Your prosthesis is not just a piece of technology, but a tool that helps restore confidence, mobility, and independence. We will work closely with you to address lower-limb pain, fitting challenges, and daily activity goals with a focus on personalized solutions.

If you are ready to begin your prosthetic journey or have questions about your next step, our team is here to help. Call us today at (888) 819-4721 to schedule your consultation and discover how South Beach Prosthetics can help you move forward with confidence.

Recibir una prótesis es un paso importante en tu vida, y ayuda mucho saber qué puedes esperar en el proceso. En South Beach Prosthetics, te acompañamos en cada etapa: desde tu primera evaluación hasta el día en que das tus primeros pasos con tu nueva prótesis. Cada paciente es diferente, pero entender el recorrido puede ayudarte a sentirte con menos ansiedad y más enfocado(a) en sanar, avanzar y recuperar tu independencia.

Comenzando con tu Evaluación

Una evaluación completa es el primer paso de tu camino protésico. Durante tu primera visita, nuestro equipo te hará muchas preguntas sobre tu salud, estilo de vida, actividades diarias, metas de movilidad e historia médica. Esta conversación inicial es mucho más que llenar formularios. Nos ayuda a recomendar opciones protésicas que realmente se ajusten a tu vida y a tus objetivos.

Revisamos cuidadosamente tu miembro residual antes incluso de considerar hacer un molde. Observamos hinchazón, zonas sensibles y prominencias óseas, porque un encaje cómodo comienza con un miembro que esté calmado y estable. Si tu miembro todavía está inflamado o cambiando, te ayudaremos a reducir esa hinchazón de manera segura antes de tomar medidas.

Antes de avanzar en el proceso de fabricación, a veces las aseguradoras necesitan dar autorización. Si ese es el caso, tu primera visita puede ser solo para evaluación y planificación. Programamos tu cita de moldeado tan pronto como recibimos la confirmación de autorización y tu miembro está listo.

Moldeado y Medidas

El siguiente paso es el moldeado, que puede hacerse una vez que el volumen de tu miembro residual esté más estable y tu seguro haya sido verificado. Hacemos un molde físico de tu miembro residual y tomamos medidas exactas. Estas medidas son muy importantes porque se usarán para fabricar tu encaje personalizado, diseñado para soportar el peso y el movimiento con comodidad. También medimos tu pierna no amputada para asegurar que la prótesis tenga la altura y el balance correctos.

Para lograr comodidad, estabilidad y función, un encaje bien hecho es esencial. Una vez que tenemos la forma exacta de tu miembro, podemos comenzar a fabricar un encaje diagnóstico o de prueba. Este encaje de prueba nos permite ver cómo se ajusta la prótesis y cómo se alinea antes de finalizarla.

Ajuste Inicial y Alineación

 

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El encaje de prueba cobra vida en tu segunda visita. Este “encaje de verificación” normalmente se hace de un plástico transparente creado a partir del primer molde. El material transparente permite que el especialista observe cómo encaja tu miembro y cómo se distribuye el peso.

También te pedimos que lleves a esta cita los zapatos que planeas usar con más frecuencia con tu prótesis. Esto ayuda a asegurar que la alineación y tus patrones de marcha sean correctos. Caminarás entre dos barras paralelas usando el encaje de prueba para que nuestro equipo evalúe tu altura, balance, comodidad y marcha. Ajustamos la alineación si es necesario para que te sientas más estable y camines mejor.

Algunos pacientes necesitan más de un encaje de verificación y más de una visita de ajuste. Esto es esperado. Estos pasos permiten hacer cambios y afinar detalles para que tu prótesis final funcione bien en la vida diaria.

Ajuste Final y Entrega

El día de entrega es el último paso antes de llevarte tu prótesis. Tú y tu especialista confirmarán que el encaje de prueba se sienta perfecto. En esta visita recibirás tu prótesis personalizada y un par de calcetines protésicos. Estos calcetines ayudan a mantener el ajuste correcto a medida que el volumen de tu miembro cambia.

Tu especialista te enseñará cómo colocarte la prótesis y cómo compensar los cambios de volumen añadiendo o quitando calcetines. No esperes usar tu primera prótesis todo el día de inmediato. Recomendamos empezar con periodos cortos y aumentar el tiempo poco a poco, a medida que te adaptas y te sientes más cómodo(a).

Uso Inicial y Cuidado de Seguimiento

Una vez que empiezas a usar tu prótesis, el seguimiento se vuelve prioridad. En los primeros días, revisa con frecuencia la piel de tu miembro residual para detectar enrojecimiento o irritación. Un enrojecimiento amplio que desaparece poco después de quitar la prótesis suele ser normal, pero un punto pequeño de presión que persiste puede indicar que hace falta un ajuste. En ese caso, comunícate con tu especialista lo antes posible.

Recomendamos firmemente que quienes usan prótesis por primera vez participen en terapia física. Un(a) fisioterapeuta te ayuda a aprender a caminar, mantener el equilibrio y realizar actividades diarias con confianza y estabilidad. La terapia es una parte importante del éxito a largo plazo con tu prótesis.

Tu especialista programará una cita de seguimiento aproximadamente una o dos semanas después de la entrega para hablar de cómo va todo y atender cualquier inquietud. Si sientes molestias antes de esa cita, llama a nuestra oficina para coordinar una visita más temprana.

Es importante recordar que, cuando aparece incomodidad, a menudo se debe a cambios en el miembro residual y no a un “problema” con la prótesis en sí. A medida que tu miembro sana y cambia, el ajuste dentro del encaje puede variar. Añadir o quitar calcetines protésicos suele ayudar, pero llamar a tu especialista asegura que hagas los cambios correctos.

Atención Coordinada y Servicios de Apoyo

En South Beach Prosthetics, trabajamos junto a tus médicos, terapeutas físicos, proveedores de atención en el hogar e incluso tu familia para que te sientas apoyado(a) en cada etapa. Sabemos que a veces llegar a las citas puede ser difícil, por eso ofrecemos traslado sin costo a todas tus citas: visitas al hospital, consultas médicas, sesiones de rehabilitación, clínicas ambulatorias y ajustes protésicos. No tienes que preocuparte por la logística; puedes concentrarte en tu recuperación.

Nuestro equipo también ofrece atención en casa, para que recibas ayuda cuando la necesites en la comodidad de tu hogar.

Tu Nuevo Comienzo

Desde la primera evaluación hasta tus primeros pasos con una prótesis personalizada, South Beach Prosthetics está comprometido con tu éxito. Usamos tecnología de vanguardia, incluyendo herramientas avanzadas de moldeado y medición, para asegurar que tu prótesis refleje tus metas, tu estilo de vida y tus necesidades de comodidad. Nuestro equipo de profesionales altamente capacitados está aquí para apoyarte, educarte y acompañarte para lograr el mejor resultado posible.

Cada etapa del proceso importa. Tu prótesis no es solo una pieza de tecnología: es una herramienta que ayuda a recuperar confianza, movilidad e independencia. Trabajaremos contigo de cerca para abordar dolor en la extremidad inferior, retos de ajuste y metas de actividad diaria, siempre con un enfoque en soluciones personalizadas.

Si estás listo(a) para comenzar tu camino protésico o tienes preguntas sobre el siguiente paso, nuestro equipo está aquí para ayudarte. Llámanos hoy al (888) 819-4721 para programar tu consulta y descubrir cómo South Beach Prosthetics puede ayudarte a seguir adelante con confianza.

Cuando recibes una prótesis, una de las partes más importantes también es la que quizá menos consideras al principio: el encaje. El encaje es la interfaz entre tu cuerpo y tu dispositivo protésico. Se fabrica a la medida de tu miembro residual y está diseñado para soportar tu peso, brindar estabilidad y permitir un movimiento cómodo. Aun así, casi todas las personas que usan una prótesis pasan por un periodo de ajustes y pequeños retoques. Eso no es señal de fracaso. Es una señal de progreso normal y saludable.

Entender por qué los ajustes son esperados y cómo ayudan puede quitar mucha incertidumbre y frustración. Puede ayudarte a saber qué observar y cuándo comunicarte con tu protesista. Y, lo más importante, puede ayudarte a sentirte más seguro(a) en tu recuperación y en tu camino hacia la movilidad.

Por Qué los Encajes Cambian con el Tiempo

Una idea equivocada común es pensar que, una vez que se hace un encaje, debería mantenerse igual para siempre. No funciona así, y aquí está el porqué.

Tu miembro residual no tiene una forma fija. Después de una amputación, el miembro cambia de manera significativa, especialmente durante el primer año. La hinchazón baja, los tejidos se asientan, cambia la masa muscular y el volumen del miembro puede disminuir o aumentar ligeramente según la actividad y la hora del día. Algunas investigaciones indican que el volumen del miembro residual puede cambiar mucho en las primeras etapas de la recuperación y continuar fluctuando según la actividad y condiciones de salud.

Incluso a largo plazo, subir o bajar de peso, el uso muscular y los ritmos naturales del cuerpo pueden cambiar cómo se siente el encaje. Como un encaje protésico es rígido por diseño, no puede adaptarse automáticamente a esos cambios. Esta es una de las razones principales por las que los ajustes son una parte normal del cuidado continuo.

Cuando comienzas a usar una prótesis, es posible que notes que el encaje se siente más ajustado por la mañana, pero más suelto más tarde en el día. Esto ocurre porque los tejidos blandos responden a la actividad diaria y a los cambios de líquidos. Con el paso de las semanas y meses, la meta es permitir que el encaje evolucione contigo para que siga brindándote soporte en distintas condiciones.

Qué Sucede Durante el Periodo Inicial de Ajuste

Justo después de recibir un encaje nuevo, podrías sentir áreas de presión, puntos apretados o secciones que se sienten sueltas. Algunas personas incluso reportan irritación en la piel o enrojecimiento después de un día de uso. No son motivos para entrar en pánico. Son señales de tu cuerpo que ayudan a tu protesista a afinar el ajuste.

Las úlceras por presión, la irritación de la piel o los callos suelen aparecer cuando ciertas áreas del miembro reciben demasiada fricción o presión desigual. Los ajustes pueden redistribuir esa presión y mejorar la comodidad.

Otro problema común es el movimiento o la holgura del encaje. Si tu miembro se desliza hacia arriba y abajo dentro del encaje, o rota al caminar, significa que el sistema de suspensión o el ajuste no están sosteniendo el miembro como deberían. Ese movimiento no solo es incómodo; también puede causar fricción y provocar problemas en la piel.

Algunas personas también notan cambios en el equilibrio o al caminar. Si sientes que tu marcha “no está bien”, te notas inestable en superficies irregulares o se te cansan rápido la espalda o las caderas, el ajuste del encaje puede estar afectando tu postura. Un encaje bien alineado mejora no solo la comodidad, sino también la postura y el equilibrio en general.

Por Qué los Ajustes Son, en Realidad, Algo Bueno

Si un encaje necesita ajustes, significa que tu cuerpo y tu protesista se están comunicando. Tu sistema nervioso te está diciendo que algo no está del todo bien. El proceso de ajuste es una serie de mejoras pequeñas que ayudan a que tu encaje coincida con la forma, el volumen y las necesidades diarias actuales de tu miembro residual.

Este proceso iterativo forma parte de crear un encaje que:

• Se siente seguro cuando te lo pones
• Distribuye la presión de manera uniforme en el miembro
• Apoya el equilibrio y patrones de marcha más naturales
• Previene daños en la piel y molestias

Debido a que los cambios de volumen son esperables, muchos protesistas comienzan con un encaje de prueba o realizan varios ajustes antes de finalizarlo. Eso no significa que algo salió mal. Significa que el sistema responde y se adapta, no que sea rígido e inamovible. Con el tiempo, a medida que el miembro se estabiliza, normalmente disminuye la cantidad de ajustes necesarios.

Muchas personas que usan prótesis también dependen de calcetines protésicos o liners para manejar las fluctuaciones diarias de volumen. No son como calcetines comunes. Están hechos especialmente para añadir o quitar “acolchado” y ayudar a que el encaje se adapte a un miembro residual un poco más grande o más pequeño. Con el tiempo, cuando el volumen se estabiliza, quizá necesites menos capas. Y eso también te da información valiosa sobre cómo tu cuerpo se está ajustando.

Los Ajustes Te Mantienen en Movimiento

Los ajustes del encaje importan porque te ayudan a moverte de forma más natural y cómoda. Un ajuste ideal mejora tu marcha, tu confianza y tu movilidad en general. Cuando el encaje coincide correctamente con la forma y el volumen de tu miembro, tu cuerpo no necesita compensar con movimientos poco naturales. Eso protege tus articulaciones, músculos y postura a largo plazo.

En cambio, un encaje demasiado ajustado puede restringir la circulación y adormecer el miembro. Un encaje demasiado suelto puede causar inestabilidad y fricción excesiva. Ambas situaciones pueden provocar problemas en la piel, molestias y que evites usar la prótesis, lo cual puede ralentizar tu rehabilitación y tus metas diarias.

Los ajustes no se tratan de “inconveniencia”. Se tratan de precisión, comodidad y éxito a largo plazo.

Cómo tu Protesista Supervisa el Ajuste y Cuándo Pedir Ayuda

Después de fabricar el encaje inicial, tu protesista no deja de prestar atención al ajuste solo porque ya se entregó el dispositivo. De hecho, gran parte del proceso inicial de cuidado consiste en observar cómo tu miembro residual y el encaje interactúan con el tiempo. En las citas de seguimiento, tu protesista observará cómo el miembro contacta el encaje, cómo se distribuye la presión y cómo caminas y te mantienes de pie. Examinará físicamente la forma interna del encaje y la comparará con tu miembro para identificar zonas irregulares donde pueda acumularse presión o áreas donde el miembro se separe del encaje. También te observará moverte, porque cómo se siente tu marcha y cómo cambia tu equilibrio puede revelar problemas sutiles de alineación o ajuste que no aparecen cuando solo estás sentado(a) o quieto(a).

Los cambios cotidianos en tu cuerpo pueden afectar el ajuste, y tu protesista usa esta información para abordarlos. Tu miembro residual cambia de forma y volumen de manera natural a lo largo del día. Los cambios de líquidos por la circulación, el calor, el tiempo de pie y el nivel de actividad pueden hacer que el miembro se hinche un poco por la mañana y disminuya por la tarde. Incluso cambios pequeños, como aumentar la actividad o estar sentado(a) por mucho tiempo, pueden generar estas fluctuaciones. Esto significa que un encaje que se sentía cómodo y ajustado más temprano puede sentirse más apretado después, o más suelto tras descansar. Factores como subir o bajar de peso, el acondicionamiento muscular o incluso cambios en la hidratación pueden influir en el ajuste a lo largo de semanas y meses. Como el encaje es rígido y el cuerpo es dinámico, la interfaz entre ambos está en una negociación constante para encontrar un nuevo equilibrio que sostenga tu comodidad y movilidad.

 

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Estos cambios cotidianos son la razón por la que las revisiones regulares son tan importantes. Tu protesista no solo está buscando problemas actuales, sino también anticipando cómo se comportará tu encaje cuando camines en terreno irregular o estés de pie por más tiempo. Si el encaje queda demasiado apretado por la hinchazón, puede restringirse la circulación y aparecer entumecimiento u hormigueo. Si el encaje se afloja porque el volumen del miembro disminuyó, el miembro puede moverse dentro, causando inestabilidad y mayor fricción que termina en irritación. Ambas situaciones pueden afectar el equilibrio, la marcha y la confianza al caminar en distintos entornos.

Saber cuándo comunicarte es clave. Si notas enrojecimiento persistente que no desaparece tras quitarte el encaje, ampollas, callos o dolor abierto, son señales de que se están formando puntos de presión y se necesitan ajustes antes de que la piel se dañe más. Sentir que la prótesis se resbala o se mueve al caminar, experimentar dolor que no mejora con un descanso corto o notar desgaste desigual en componentes protésicos son motivos válidos para contactar a tu protesista. Cambios en tu rutina diaria, como más actividad o un cambio de peso, también pueden indicar que es momento de una revisión. No son molestias sin importancia; son retroalimentación valiosa que ayuda a tu equipo de cuidado a adaptar el encaje a tus necesidades actuales.

Al combinar la evaluación profesional con tus observaciones diarias, el equipo puede afinar el encaje o, si es necesario, remodelarlo o rediseñarlo para que siga apoyándote con comodidad. Un buen cuidado significa escuchar lo que el cuerpo comunica a través del ajuste y la comodidad, y lo que el protesista aprende mediante una evaluación práctica. Esa colaboración es lo que mantiene tu prótesis funcionando bien a medida que avanzas en tu recuperación y más allá.

Reflexiones Finales

 

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Un encaje protésico no es una solución de una sola vez. Es parte de un camino: un compañero diario que necesita atención y cuidado. Los ajustes regulares no solo son normales; son esenciales para asegurar que tu prótesis siga siendo cómoda, funcional y alineada con tus metas.

En South Beach Prosthetics, fomentamos la comunicación abierta y los seguimientos regulares. Los ajustes del encaje no son retrocesos. Son hitos en tu camino hacia la libertad, la confianza y la movilidad.

Acéptalos como parte del proceso. Tu cuerpo es dinámico, y tu cuidado también debería serlo.

January 2026 brings a fresh slate—a moment to pause, breathe, and recognize the resilience that carried you through the past year. For many amputees, the beginning of a new year isn’t about making resolutions—it’s about building momentum, restoring confidence, and embracing the small and steady victories that shape everyday life.

At South Beach Prosthetics, we believe that entering a new year should feel empowering, supported, and full of possibility. Our patient-centered model of care ensures that you never face your mobility journey alone. Whether you’re adjusting to a new prosthesis, preparing for fittings, or returning to rehabilitation, our team is here to help you start 2026 with strength and clarity.

A New Year Rooted in Renewal—and Real Support

January often marks a turning point in the prosthetic journey. It’s a time when patients:

• Reassess prosthetic comfort and fit
• Begin follow-ups or new fittings
• Restart physical therapy after the holidays
• Set personal goals for mobility and independence

We understand that this season comes with its own challenges. That’s why South Beach Prosthetics surrounds patients with comprehensive support—so accessing care feels simple, safe, and manageable.

1. Included transportation for all prosthetic and amputation-related appointments

Our adapted transportation fleet ensures you can get where you need to go—no stress, no uncertainty, no barriers. Whether it’s a fitting, a doctor’s visit, therapy, or hospital follow-up, our drivers provide reliable, caring transport to and from your appointments.

2. Full mobile support, including in-home visits

If traveling is difficult, our clinicians come directly to you. Fittings, adjustments, and follow-ups can all be done from home—so your care progresses without interruption.

3. Precision-crafted, custom-designed prosthetics

Using advanced technologies—such as FastSCAN laser-guided imaging, CAD-CAM design, and 3D-printed socket fabrication—we create prostheses tailored to your body and lifestyle for maximum comfort and function.

 

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4. A long-term team invested in your success

We coordinate closely with physicians, therapists, hospitals, and families so that every patient receives cohesive, compassionate support from day one through long-term follow-up.

Why January 2026 Is the Ideal Time to Revisit Your Prosthetic Needs

The start of a new year naturally inspires reflection and recalibration—especially when it comes to mobility and comfort. Your prosthetic needs can change over time, whether due to limb volume fluctuations, lifestyle updates, or natural changes in activity levels.

January is a meaningful time to:

• Reevaluate socket comfort
• Explore updated technologies
• Begin gait training or return to therapy
• Address fit concerns that surfaced during the holidays
• Set personal mobility goals for 2026

Your journey is personal, and your prosthesis should evolve with you. Our team is here to help you make 2026 a year where mobility feels more comfortable, more stable, and more achievable.

Transportation Included: So Nothing Holds You Back

The ability to access appointments consistently is one of the biggest predictors of long-term prosthetic success. That’s why our transportation support is designed with your comfort and independence in mind.

Our adapted vehicles provide reliable transport to:

• Prosthetic fittings and adjustments
• Physician appointments
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation sessions
• Outpatient clinics
• Hospital visits
• Nursing facilities—and more

Every ride includes a clean, sanitized environment and drivers trained to support patients with mobility needs.

When the logistics of getting to care are taken off your shoulders, it becomes much easier to focus on healing, movement, and confidence.

In 2026, Your Strength Meets Our Support

Whether 2026 brings big goals or small steps forward, you don’t have to navigate any part of this journey alone. South Beach Prosthetics is here to ensure:

• A personalized, precise prosthetic fit
• Maximum comfort with expert adjustments
• In-home visits when travel is difficult
• Included transportation to all prosthetic and amputation-related care
• Compassionate support from a team that truly cares

Your determination is powerful—and with the right support system, it becomes unstoppable.

Step Into 2026 with Confidence

If you’re ready to begin the year with renewed comfort, mobility, and peace of mind, we’re here to help.

📞 Call (888) 819-4721 to schedule a fitting, request an in-home visit, or arrange transportation.
🚐 Request transportation online: https://www.southbeachop.com/transportation-services/
🌐 Learn more at SouthBeachOP.com

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The perfect fit. Maximum comfort. Compassionate care—with adapted rides or in-home visits to get you there.

Da la bienvenida al 2026 con confianza.

Si estás listo para comenzar el año con mayor comodidad, movilidad y tranquilidad, estamos aquí para ayudarte.

📞 Llama al (888) 819-4721 para programar una adaptación, solicitar una visita a domicilio o coordinar transporte.
🚐 Solicita transporte en línea: https://www.southbeachop.com/transportation-services/
🌐 Obtén más información en SouthBeachOP.com

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El ajuste perfecto. Máxima comodidad. Cuidado compasivo—con transporte adaptado o visitas a domicilio para llevarte donde lo necesites.

 

As the holiday season approaches and travel plans kick into high gear, the challenges of navigating airports, security, and unfamiliar destinations with a prosthetic limb become magnified. Travel, even for the most seasoned globetrotter, demands a specialized level of adaptation and preparation. This is why the insights of a world-traveling amputee are so invaluable: they are built on years of optimizing movement and refining essential gear. Read on to discover the hard-won wisdom that will transform your travel experience.

South Beach OP provides the expertise to live fully, which absolutely includes seamless travel. We ensure your limb is optimized for long journeys and that you are fully prepared for every scenario. Let us help you end this year strong and ensure your holiday travel and 2026 adventures are supported by the ultimate in prosthetic efficiency and resilience.

Click To Read: Travel Hacks From a Globetrotting Amputee

Don’t let logistical worries dictate your destination or limit your adventures. Our cutting-edge and advanced prosthetic solutions can provide the support you need to conquer any itinerary. We wish you well and all the best for your endeavors in 2026! Our team is here to support you in every step, ensuring your travels are nothing short of extraordinary. Contact us today at 888-819-4721, or follow us on Instagram for more tips.

Rehabilitation after an amputation is not just about healing—it’s about rebuilding independence, mobility, and quality of life. The journey can feel overwhelming, but with the right team and resources, patients can achieve remarkable progress. From physical therapy to advanced prosthetic technology, amputation rehab is designed to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of limb loss, helping individuals regain confidence and control of their future.

According to Hopkins Medicine, common goals of rehab include strengthening residual limbs, learning new ways to move, and adapting to everyday activities. With a dedicated approach and personalized support, this process transforms what may feel like a setback into an opportunity for renewal.

At South Beach Prosthetics, we believe that no one should walk this road alone. Our expert team provides cutting-edge prosthetic solutions tailored to your unique needs, helping you master new skills and regain strength with confidence. We’ve seen firsthand how the right prosthetic care empowers patients to return not only to daily routines but also to the passions and goals that make life meaningful.

👉 Don’t let limb loss define you—let it inspire your comeback. Learn more about what to expect in the rehabilitation process by visiting this helpful guide. Then take the next step toward independence with South Beach Prosthetics. Call us today at 888-819-4721 or connect with us on Instagram to start your journey toward strength, mobility, and freedom.

At South Beach Prosthetics, we believe every prosthetic tells a story of resilience, courage, and renewed possibility. Few stories embody that belief as powerfully as that of Jacky Hunt-Broersma—an ultrarunner, cancer survivor, author, and mother whose determination continues to redefine what’s possible.

From Cancer Diagnosis to Competitive Running

Jacky’s journey began in 2001 when she was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare bone-associated cancer. At age 26, she underwent amputation of her left leg—an experience that marked both an ending and a beginning.

Despite the challenges that followed, Jacky discovered a path forward through running. She began her running journey in 2016, quickly progressing from local 5k races to ultramarathons—and proving her own doubts—and others’—wrong along the way.

Redefining Limits with Every Mile

Jacky has shattered records—and expectations—through unforgettable feats of endurance:

• She became the first amputee to complete the TransRockies Mountain Stage Race in Colorado, a grueling multi-day, high-altitude trail event.
• In 2020, amid pandemic disruptions, she ran 100 miles on a treadmill in under 24 hours, setting a new record among amputee athletes.
• Her most widely recognized achievement came in April 2022 when she completed 104 marathons in 104 consecutive days, including the Boston Marathon in its inaugural para-athletics division—raising over $192,000 for Amputee Blade Runners along the way.
• More recently, in March 2025, Jacky became the first amputee to run The Speed Project solo, a demanding 300+ mile route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas across desert terrain.

Each achievement spotlights not just physical grit, but a remarkable mental strength—and a commitment to empowering others.

More Than Miles: Inspiring Adaptive Sports

Beyond her racing accomplishments, Jacky is a voice for inclusion and hope. She’s authored a children’s book, Emma’s Brave Steps, and frequently speaks at schools and events, encouraging others—especially young amputees—to push beyond limitations.

She also shares candid accounts of the unique challenges of running on a prosthetic—including managing liner fit, blisters, tread wear, and equipment failures mid-race. Her transparency has helped others better understand what adaptive athletes navigate with strength and resourcefulness.

Why Jacky’s Story Matters to South Beach Prosthetics

At South Beach Prosthetics, our mission is to blend cutting-edge technology with humanity, helping clients reclaim independence and thrive. Jacky’s journey reflects exactly that:

• Innovation in action: Her ability to run ultramarathons across deserts and mountains underscores the potential of modern prosthetic design—especially with advanced blades and personalized fit.
• Resilience embodied: Jacky reminds us that an amputation isn’t an end—it’s a pivot into new possibilities.
• Community and advocacy: Her fundraising and visibility help destigmatize disability and provide life-changing support to others.
  

Podcasts for the Mindset of Champions

Jacky’s story showcases mental toughness, but mindset isn’t just innate—it can be cultivated. Here are two podcast episodes we recommend for anyone looking to build resilience and guide young athletes with strength and empathy:

• 3 Tools to Help Your Athlete Overcome Mental Blocks
• The Mentally Strong Girl Athlete: 3 Things Every Sports Mom Needs to Teach Her Daughter

Ready to Explore What’s Possible?

Jacky Hunt-Broersma’s story reminds us that with the right support, adaptive athletes can redefine their limits—and in doing so, inspire a whole community. At South Beach Prosthetics, we’re dedicated to crafting personalized prosthetic solutions that empower you to live boldly, freely, and without compromise. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, an experienced hiker, or simply someone pursuing your everyday best—our compassionate team is here to guide your journey.

Contact us today at (888) 819-4721 to schedule a consultation, explore innovative prosthetic options, or just learn how we can support your next adventure.

👉 And for parents raising young athletes, check out The Elite Competitor’s free training on how to best support your girl athlete with confidence, encouragement, and the tools she needs to thrive.

In the world of extreme sports, where physical and mental boundaries are constantly being pushed, the story of one amputee is an inspiration to all. Highlining requires an immense amount of balance, focus, and determination. For individuals with limb loss, this might seem like an impossible feat, but as this story shows, it is not. Her story is a powerful call to fellow amputees to get inspired and find their new joys, proving that the sky truly is the limit.

Stories like these highlight the power of resilience and innovation. Amputees around the world are discovering new passions and pushing boundaries once thought unreachable—not because the challenges disappeared, but because the right support and technology made the impossible possible. At South Beach Prosthetics, our mission is to provide that same level of freedom and possibility through personalized, state-of-the-art prosthetic solutions. Whether your goals are everyday comfort or extreme adventure, we’re here to help you rise to the challenge. Call us today at 888-819-4721 to find out how we can help you or someone you care about. 

“I’ve always had terrible balance,” says Breeanna Elliott. That’s not an uncommon refrain among lower-limb amputees, even those who (like Elliott) grew up with a limb difference and have walked with the same gait all their lives.

So how did she end up traversing a slackline strung between two sheer, 300-foot-high redrock cliffs near Utah’s Canyonlands National Park? “At first it seemed impossible,” Elliott laughs. “But I’ve learned to trust my body, and I’m willing to fall. I have fallen a lot. And I’ve learned to trust that.”

To be clear, Elliott doesn’t mean she has plunged glumly to the desert floor, a la Wile E. Coyote. She’s spent two years practicing on slacklines just a few feet off the ground, tumbling off and getting back on more times than she can count—not unlike what many new amputees go through while learning to walk with a prosthesis. The process has tested her patience as times. But the effects have been transformative.

“It’s given me a lot of self-confidence,” explains the 32-year-old Elliott. “It’s a meditative exercise that requires thoughtful breathing and full awareness of where your weight is, how your hips move, where your feet are. It’s given me a level of body awareness I’ve never had before, and that’s critical for amputees. That’s one of the reasons I’ve started to prosyletize this. I think there should be a slackline in every prosthetist and PT clinic. The beauty of it is that the bar is really low. Just take a step—that’s all you have to do.”

Elliott’s desire to introduce more amputees to slacklining led her to Faith Dickey, world renowned for her mastery of highlining (ie, slacklining at extreme elevations). Dickey, who operates the nation’s first highlining guide service (Elevate Outdoors), shares Elliott’s convictions that a) anyone can learn to walk a highline (or slackline), and b) it’s a whole-health activity that strengthens mind, body, and spirit.

That’s the roundabout answer to the question of how Elliott found herself balancing in midair on a slackline. Last weekend, she and four other people with disabilities gathered in Moab for a day-long highlining session with Dickey at the Fruit Bowl, one of the sport’s most iconic locations. Three of the participants—including a dude who lost his leg above the knee just eight months ago—had never previously walked a slackline at any height, much less at the Fruit Bowl’s dizzying altitudes. Nevertheless, everybody made the harrowing crossing with relative ease.

Everyone also fell multiple times, but NBD: Dickey’s failsafe system of harnesses, straps, carabiners, and helmets kept everyone intact and unharmed. By day’s end, Elliott was falling off the line on purpose to practice her remounts, while one of the first-timers was belting out show tunes as she skipped across the canyon. “It was the best weekend,” Elliott said afterward.

She hopes it will be the first of many. Elliott and Ryan Juguan (another of last weekend’s Fruit Bowlers) have launched the Adaptive Slacklining Association, a brand-new nonprofit dedicated to building a connected community of slackliners with disabilities.

We’ll be writing more about Elliott’s slacklining journey in a future print edition. For now, here’s a quickie Q+A transcript (lightly edited) of our conversation with her a few weeks before the Fruit Bowl festivities.

How did you get introduced to slacklining?

Some friends showed me how to do it. It was a little frustrating at first, because they didn’t have any experience with amputees or disabled people, so there were this level of overenthusiasm. I was like: Calm down, I just took one step ok? When I looked online to try to find videos of amputees slacklining, there was almost no information about adaptive slacklining. That was one of the main inspirations to start the Adaptive Slacklining Association. The goal is not only to introduce this to people and talk about our own individual ways of adapting, but also to explain why these skills are so important for daily life, preventing falls, and just staying healthy.

I have the impression that this is a very tactile sport. Every time I’ve seen people do it, they’re barefoot or in their socks. Since your left foot is prosthetic, what adaptations do you have to make for that?

It is extremely tactile, in the sense that you must trust the rope by feeling it with your feet. You should never be looking down at the line at all, because that affects your balance. You need to be looking up the entire time and feel where your foot goes. Obviously I feel nothing on my left side, so I’ve had to develop a lot of trust by concentrating on where I’m putting my knee. I don’t take steps the same way other slackliners do. I don’t have that much movement in my ankle component, so I’ve become really good at pushing my heel against the rope first. Sometimes I’ll use my big toe to touch a particular spot on my foot shell, and that would tell me that my feet are in line. The goal is stay completely in line with the rope, with only side-to-side movement, and only with your arms. But I can’t predict when my foot will be a little off, so I move around more. It’s a less elegant way of slacklining. When I was first learning, people were trying to correct that and telling me not to move, but that’s just not an option for me. I’ve actually gotten pretty good with a lot of movement to compensate for my left leg, but it’s controlled movement.

How long did it take you to figure all of this out?

It took me a while, a lot of trial and error. When I first started, I had people watching me and trying to correct me in particular ways that are pretty common to the sport, but not things I could do. I could get a couple of steps in, but I never felt like comfortable until I started doing it on my own and working with my own body. Before slacklining, I could never balance on my left leg, and I thought it was truly impossible. And now I have pretty fabulous balance, better than someone who has a full limb.

Has your prosthetist supported you in this? Or are they afraid you’re going to injure yourself?

David (Mahler) has been incredibly supportive. When I first started slacklining, I told him I have gained balance that I’ve never had before. David was like, “Send me a video,” and he was blown away. He has been encouraging me to continue with my interest and making suggestions. He suggested that I try a hydraulic ankle. I was pretty reluctant, because it’s not very good for running, but David was itching for me to try it. He gave me a display model so I could check it out, and it did give me a range of movement I’ve never had, and that has been really helpful in the movement I have to do to get my foot on the line. This leg has a dynamic component that allows me to put pressure on the line, and then the foot moves down. That has made it possible for me to do some moves that I couldn’t have adapted as easily.

At what point did you start thinking you might be good enough to try highlining?

One of the first people who introduced me to slacklining made it seem that highlining might be impossible for me, and that never sat very well with me. I knew highlining existed, and I just really wanted to try it. After I started doing really well [with slacklining], I started thinking I could really do [highlining]. But there’s a pretty significant barrier to it, because you need a lot of safety gear. So I just randomly called Faith, and I explained who I am and why I’m interested. She was really enthusiastic. Just a few weeks earlier she had worked with someone who had brittle bone disease, and that was an awesome experience for her and she wanted to open up the sport to more people. That fit right into my vision of this being a community. I didn’t want to be a singular disabled person in a community of slackliners who are not disabled.

With the right tools, you can achieve anything. If you’re ready to redefine your limits, our cutting-edge and advanced prosthetic solutions can provide the support, stability, and freedom you need for new adventures. Contact us today at 888-819-4721, or follow us on Instagram for more tips.

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Reference: [https://livingwithamplitude.com/amputee-highlining-adaptive-slacklining-breeanna-elliott/]

There’s a link between public transit access and health outcomes. While research has long suggested that robust transit networks foster healthier communities, new direct evidence sheds light on a surprising connection: the impact of transportation on limb loss. Dive in to understand what these studies mean for healthcare access and community well-being, and how the piece emphasizes how limited mobility and access to consistent care can directly contribute to worsening health outcomes, especially for those with diabetes or vascular conditions.

If you’ve ever missed a doctor’s appointment because you couldn’t find a ride to the clinic, you understand the relationship between public transit and health outcomes. A large body of research has established that communities which lack easy access to public transit are less healthy, in the aggregate, than communities with extensive, affordable transit networks.

Various studies have shown that transit access can reduce rates of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, vascular diseases, and other conditions associated with limb loss. Based on that evidence, it’s logical to infer that transit access affects the rate of limb loss as well. But there was never any direct data to support that inference until last month—and, in a mild surprise, the findings are less definitive than we might expect.

The study appeared in BMJ Open Diabetes Research and was conducted by researchers affiliated with Emory University. They examined the correlation between public transit and a specific type of limb loss, ie amputations caused by diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), and they limited their study to a single state (Georgia) over a four-year period (2016-19). Ergo the conclusions are highly contingent and not readily generalizable. But they’re still important, insofar as this is apparently the first rigorous look at the associations between transportation access and DFU outcomes in the United States.

The authors focused on Georgia for reasons beyond simple proximity (Emory is located in Atlanta). Georgia offers a good study context because it has a high prevalence of diabetes, above-average rates of socioeconomic distress (low income, low education), and large racial and ethnic minority populations. All these demographic markers correlate with high DFU incidence, high amputation rates, and heavy reliance on public transit. The authors hypothesized that “increased access to healthcare through public transportation measures at the ZIP code level is associated with a decrease in DFU-related amputation rates.”

Makes sense so far, right? During the four-year study period, Georgia logged 1.1 million DFU cases, 14,782 minor amputations (ie toes and partial feet), and 6,606 major amputations (limb loss at the ankle or higher). The researchers plotted all those incidents by zip code, then wove in data regarding the proximity of transit stops, proximity of primary healthcare facilities, prevalence of automobile ownership, per-capita public transit expenditures, and a handful of other markers.

After crunching all those numbers, the authors determined that:

• Higher rates of public transit commuting—ie, higher reliance on public transit—were associated with higher amputation rates, particularly in zip codes with high rates of poverty. However, the inverse effect was observed in affluent zip codes with high proportions of household car ownership, which suggests that when riders choose public transit as an option rather than a necessity, they may derive limb-preserving health benefits from the higher activity levels (eg, walking to/from transit stops) involved in bus/train ridership.
• Heavier investment in public transportation was associated with lower amputation rates. Here, too, the correlation was affected by socioeconomic factors: In the lowest-income zip codes, amputation rates were not affected by gross public transit expenditures.
• Finally, distance to transit stop was associated with increased amputation risk in low-income zip codes.

“Transportation is clearly a significant barrier to care for chronic diseases, including DFU, particularly for low-income populations,” the authors conclude. “Potential solutions to this problem include NEMT [non-emergency medical transportation], telemedicine, and mobile care….Future studies could investigate the impact of transportation assistance in conjunction with telemedicine and/or mobile clinics for DFU care.”

Your journey to mobility and health shouldn’t be a struggle.

At South Beach Prosthetics, we understand that getting to your appointments shouldn’t be a barrier to recovery. That’s why this article deeply resonates with us. We’ve built our patient-first model around eliminating those access issues. Included in our care: no-cost transportation to and from all South Beach Prosthetics appointments, ensuring patients never have to choose between care and convenience. It’s not just about prosthetics—it’s about supporting the whole patient, every step of the way.

In fact, we go even further by offering in-home care as part of our standard service package if you prefer it. For patients with mobility issues or heightened risk factors, being able to receive fittings, adjustments, and follow-up evaluations from the comfort of home can make a world of difference. Articles like this one affirm why comprehensive, wraparound care isn’t just a value-add—it’s essential.

If you or a loved one is facing limb loss, know that our cutting-edge and advanced prosthetic solutions can empower a life of renewed independence. Contact us today at 888-819-4721, or follow us on Instagram for more tips.

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Reference: [https://livingwithamplitude.com/amputation-diabetic-foot-ulcer-public-transportation/]

Summer is the perfect time to embrace adventure, and being an amputee doesn’t have to slow you down! With the right tools and mindset, you can soak up the season’s best moments. Today’s innovations make it easier than ever to stay active and comfortable in the heat. Let’s make this your most empowered summer!

It’s sunny, the frozen margaritas are flowing, shorts-and-sandals season has arrived. Cities are reopening after lockdown, and travel restrictions are slowly being lifted. You’re feeling ready to gallivant in the sunshine and work on your tan at the beach. The only problem? You wear a prosthesis.

Those of us who live in warmer climates are very familiar with the struggles that come as the temperatures warm up. As a Floridian, I live within what most would consider year-round summer. My nemesis—sweat—is an issue from February to October, with a brief and sometimes non-existent respite around the holidays. So how exactly can you thrive during sweaty season? Here’s how I manage it down here in the tropics. You may find some of these strategies useful.

Let’s start with the biggest issue—liner sweat. We’ve all had those days when you can pour a glass full as you peel off your liner. Excessive sweat can cause skin irritation, bacteria growth, and, worst of all, liner slippage, causing your entire prosthesis to slide off in some cases. When I’m planning a full day out in the sun, I always bring a small towel, gentle cleanser, baby wipes, a travel-sized bottle of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer, and extra socks. I remove my liner periodically, empty any sweat pooling inside, and wash my residual limb with the cleanser (or a baby wipe in a pinch). I dry myself off and put the liner back on with either alcohol or hand sanitizer. I always keep extra socks handy, in case I have volume changes in my limb throughout the day and need to maintain a secure fit on my socket.

These supplies are especially helpful for beach trips, which in my case happen pretty routinely. It’s critical to get all the sand and saltwater off your prosthesis and liner after a swim to avoid any internal damage to the hardware and itching inside the liner.

Of course, sweat happens in places other than your residual limb, especially in summer. That brings me to my next subject: breathable fabrics. Leg amputees use at least 30 percent more energy when walking than the average able-bodied person, and some days it feels like 200 percent more. Comfortable cotton clothing and shorts give me easy access to my prosthesis, cuts back on overheating, and makes me less irritable when the inevitable liner issue or other amputee problem arises in the middle of a trip to Disney World. Keep in mind that wearing shorts will expose your prosthesis and offer less protection than pants offer. Companies such as Alleles and UNYQ offer beautiful and protective prosthesis covers that can keep damage at bay and let you express yourself via vibrant colors and designs. They’re often covered by insurance as durable medical equipment.

Sandals and flip-flops are really what kick me into the summer vibe. As my first amputee summer approached, I dreaded the thought of having to wear sneakers and boots in the middle of July. I worried my five remaining toes would never see the sun again. After much trial and error, I have learned that I can indeed wear sandals with some minor modifications. Here’s the trick: the sturdier the straps, the better. No one wants a shoe flying off mid-step (and trust me, it can happen), so I go for shoes that wrap well around my foot shell. If you prefer to wear slides or flip-flips, try a heavy-duty Velcro and line up a piece both on the bottom of your foot shell and on the flat part of your shoe. This will create more grip.

Finally, there’s the issue of mobility aids. We all spend more time outdoors when the weather’s fine and the sun is shining. That usually translates into more walking, more sweat, and more stress on the residual limb, and so forth. When you don’t feel like dealing with those issues on a given day, there is absolutely nothing—I repeat, NOTHING—wrong with using crutches or a wheelchair, even if you might be capable of walking. When we overexert our residual limb, blisters and bruising can form, therefore making it difficult to walk in the days that follow. And if you’re too busy and active to manage the sweat in your socket, your leg will eventually just slide right off, leaving you stranded.

There’s nothing shameful or weak about taking care of yourself. That’s the golden rule of living your best hot amputee summer. Know your limits, listen to your body’s cues, and make the adaptations you need. Bonus points if you can get a friend or family member to push you around in a wheelchair smoothly enough that you don’t spill your margarita.

Your summer, your way. Empower your independence! Discover how our cutting-edge and advanced prosthetic solutions can help you thrive. Contact us today at 888-819-4721, or follow us on Instagram for more tips.

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Reference: [https://livingwithamplitude.com/amputee-sweat-survival-skills/]