Finger compression element: preparing for the prosthesis

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Compression therapy

Finger compression element

Course of treatment

Here is an overview of the typical procedure for prosthesis treatment at Pohlig.

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Finger prosthesis

A silicone finger prosthesis realistically recreates the missing finger.

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A finger prosthesis can only fit consistently well if the volume of the finger stump remains constant. For this reason, the residual limb is guided into a stable, final shape by a compressing residual limb appliance (compression element) before the actual prosthesis is fitted. A compression element - just like the finger prosthesis - is made of silicone.

Finger compression elements thus consolidate residual limb conditions and prepare the residual limb for wearing an individual silicone finger prosthesis. Stump edema or lymphatic congestion is consolidated into a finger stump that is stable and consistent in its shape - even if it has developed over a long period of time. Furthermore, compression elements can also be used as a protective cap for the finger stump.

To ensure that no complications arise during subsequent conversion from compression element to finger prosthesis, the compression elements are identical to the finger prosthesis in terms of their length and the material used. Wearing a compression element regularly can lead to a desirable reduction in residual limb circumference after just a few days. Depending on the residual limb situation, the entire process of residual limb consolidation takes between 4-8 weeks.

The finger compression element set usually consists of 3 elements, which reduce in their circular circumference from compression element no. 1 to no. 3. If the finger stump reduces even further and compression element no. 3 is too loose, compression therapy is continued until the stump has found its final shape or stump consolidation is complete. This requires additional silicone caps, which we make individually. In rare cases, compression therapy can include up to 10 compression elements.

The dot markings on the inside of the element serve as orientation for the different circumferences. These should be centered in the palm of the hand.

In the case of simultaneous fitting of several amputation stumps, the compression elements also have a Roman numeral which represents the assignment to the respective finger (I = thumb; II = index finger; III = middle finger; IV = ring finger; V = little finger).

When the compression elements are used as residual limb protection caps, the design is generally selected with a constant compression strength. In this case, there is no point marking of the compression elements.

Putting on and taking off a finger compression element - especially for a new fitting - must first be learned.

A compression element is worn directly on the skin. It is put on with the help of Vaseline. You should be careful not to use too much Vaseline, as this will cause the compression element to lose adhesion to the skin.

Now you can slide the compression element onto the stump of your finger.

Looking at the inside of your palm, the dot mark should be in the center of the bottom of the stump. Any air pockets between the compression element and the finger stump must be completely massaged out.

In preparation for the finger prosthetic fitting, compression therapy must be started with compression element no. 1. This is indicated by a dot. The changeover to the more strongly compressing element no. 2 may only take place when the 1st compression element is too wide and its size threatens to slip off the finger stump. The change to the most compressive element no. 3 may only be made when the 2nd compression element is too wide and threatens to slip off the finger stump due to its size. If necessary, ask your orthopedic technician!

When removing the finger compression element, air must first get between the residual limb and the compression element so that you can then remove the element.

Skin observation

The materials used for your finger compression element have been given special attention. They have been tested accordingly for skin compatibility. Increased perspiration can lead to skin irritation under the compression element. In case of these or other skin irritations, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

It is especially important that you keep a close eye on your skin in the area where the compression element is worn. The continuous compression can easily cause changes in the color of the skin (reddish). However, a dark red, bluish discoloration or an open skin area are not acceptable.

After showering or bathing, the skin must be completely dry and not softened before you put on your compression garment. Body lotions or creams must also be completely absorbed before applying the compression element. Please do not use body powder, because powder rubs the skin under the compression element and dries it out even more.

Training & therapy

Regular physiotherapy or occupational therapy is not replaced by the use of the compression element. Your doctor can give you further advice on functional training. Your finger compression element is part of a therapy concept and can only develop its optimum effect within the framework of your active cooperation. Adherence to the daily wearing time, physiotherapeutic exercises under supervision and daily therapeutic exercise training at home are components of the therapy that contribute to success.

Please keep in mind that the pre-treatment of the residual limb by the compression element is part of an overall therapeutic concept. Therefore, if necessary, also consult your doctor, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, etc. for advice.

Wearing time

The compression element made for you should be worn daily unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor. The daily wearing time should be as long as possible. The compression element can be taken off during the night.

Cleaning & disinfection

You should clean your compression element daily with water to avoid unpleasant odors. Other agents and substances should be avoided, as even the slightest soap residue can cause skin irritation due to the close skin contact during wearing.

In case of heavy contamination, compression elements can be boiled in water. However, this procedure should not be carried out more frequently than once a week.

Complications

The wearing comfort and the wearing time of your silicone compression element depend to a large extent on the sensitivity and resilience of your finger stump and your active cooperation.

Basically, your compression element should be comfortable at all times. Excessive pressure or severe skin discoloration can lead to complications. Contact us if you have any problems with your compression element!

Your compression element is designed exclusively for the area of application specified with you. Contact with acids, alkalis and solvents must be avoided. In addition, your compression element should not heat up to more than +50°C. Otherwise, the fit may be lost. Likewise, the use of the compression element below a temperature of -30°C is to be avoided.