Why Orthotic and Prosthetic Fit Can Change After Time Away
Summer brings travel, vacations, Florida heat, different footwear, trips to the pool or beach, and changes in school, work, and therapy schedules. For people who wear an orthotic or prosthetic device, that can sometimes mean wearing it less often than usual.
Many devices aren’t particularly breathable or easy to incorporate with sandals, bare feet, swimming, or other summer activities. Sometimes routines simply change—or you need a break.
Whatever the reason, you are not alone.
As regular routines return, your device may feel different, your body may have changed, or you may simply need some time to adjust to consistent wear again.
The good news? Getting back on track often starts with a few simple steps.
Scenario 1
You Wore Your Device This Summer – Just Not as Often
If you continued wearing your orthosis or prosthesis throughout the summer but reduced your usual wearing time, you’re already in a good position.
- Start by gradually returning to your regular wear schedule rather than immediately jumping back into a full day.
- Pay attention to how the device feels as you increase your wearing time.
- If you notice rubbing, pressure, discomfort, or another issue that consistently appears after a certain amount of time, schedule an appointment with your orthotist or prosthetist.
You may simply need a minor adjustment to get comfortable again.
Scenario 2
You Took a Longer Break From Your Device
Maybe you took the summer off entirely, or perhaps you only wore your device when leaving the house. That’s okay, too – but there are a few more things to check before returning to your previous routine.
- Try Your Device Back On. Use your device exactly as you normally would with the correct socks, liners, shoes, or other components.
- Does It Still Fit Properly? If you cannot get it on correctly, don’t force it. An evaluation is needed.
- How Does It Feel? You may need to gradually rebuild your wearing time. Readjusting may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Can You Get It On, But It Hurts? Pain or discomfort may be due to changes in your body or how the device is being worn. See the full list of possible reasons below.
- Can’t Get Your Device Fully or Correctly On? This requires more attention. Do not continue wearing it until it has been evaluated.
If your device doesn’t fit correctly or causes pain, don’t force it.
(in children)
or loss
residual-limb volume
strength
motion or flexibility
changes
change in your health
thickness
is being put on
What to Watch for as You Return to Your Routine
Which Devices Are Most Affected by Fit Changes?
Any orthotic or prosthetic device can require adjustment over time, but changes in the body can be especially noticeable with custom-fabricated devices, including:
- Custom thermoplastic orthoses
- Carbon and custom prepreg SMOs, AFOs, and KAFOs
- Below-knee (transtibial) prostheses
- Above-knee (transfemoral) prostheses
- Pediatric orthotic and prosthetic devices
- Upper-extremity prostheses
- Partial-hand prostheses
- Scoliosis braces, including LSOs and TLSOs
This is not an all-inclusive list. Your orthotist or prosthetist can evaluate your individual device and fit.
Mild Soreness or Something More?
Returning to your normal wearing schedule may occasionally cause some mild soreness similar to the “I haven’t used that muscle in a while” feeling you might experience after returning to the gym or gardening after some time away. That mild soreness should improve as your body readjusts.
Severe pain, persistent discomfort, significant redness, or skin breakdown is different.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact your WCBL team for guidance. If the device is causing significant pain or skin breakdown, don’t continue wearing it until your practitioner has evaluated the situation and determined that it’s safe to do so.
What If You Need a New Orthotic or Prosthetic Device?
If your practitioner determines that your existing device can no longer be appropriately adjusted, you may need to begin the process for a replacement.
This is one area where things may have changed since you received your last device. However, obtaining a new orthosis or prosthesis typically involves more than simply calling your physician for a new prescription.
Depending on your insurance and the device being prescribed, requirements may include:
- A prescription for the device
- Documentation from an in-person or telehealth physician visit
- Documentation explaining what you need and why it is medically necessary
- Insurance eligibility verification
- Prior authorization, when required
The Details in Your Medical Record Matter
Your physician’s documentation needs to explain why a new device is medically necessary.
✓ HELPFUL DOCUMENTATION
“Sally needs a new AFO because she grew an inch this summer and her current AFO no longer fits. She continues to require the AFO to control foot drop and walk safely.”
✕ NOT ENOUGH
“Sally called and wants a new order sent to Westcoast for an AFO.”
For more information, read our Understanding the Insurance Process for Orthotic & Prosthetic Care article.
Need Help With the Documentation?
Insurance requirements vary by device, diagnosis, and individual plan. Ask your WCBL practitioner whether a Dear Physician Letter may help.
Our clinical team can help explain why your current device is no longer meeting your needs and what documentation may be required, including a Standard Written Order (SWO) when applicable.
Ready to Get Back Into Your Routine?
If your orthosis or prosthesis isn’t fitting or feeling the way it did before summer, don’t assume you simply have to “get used to it.”
Sometimes a gradual return is all you need. Other times, an adjustment or evaluation may be necessary.
We’re here to help you determine the right next step.
Need to reach your WCBL office?
Call or text your location. When texting, include your name and date of birth; photos can also be sent when helpful.
