Prosthetics are artificial devices that replace natural body parts. Exercises for prosthetics center on getting as much usage as possible out of your new device while improving your quality of life. Exercises concentrate on strengthening and stretching the affected surrounding muscles. Since exercises differ according to individual situations, consult with your doctor.
Isometrics
Exercises for prosthetics need to include isometric maneuvers. Isometrics involve muscle contractions that strengthen muscles without moving affected joints and prove especially beneficial during initial stages of recuperation. Using isometrics to strengthen muscles throughout your body will enhance stability and support of your new prosthetic. Isometrics can conveniently be done while sitting, lying or standing throughout the day, according to Christina Skoski M.D. For lower extremity prosthetics, tighten your buttock muscles or thigh muscles and hold 10 seconds. Release tension and relax 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times. For upper extremity devices, tighten your chest muscles and hold 10 seconds. Release tension and relax 10 seconds. Repeat the exercise 10 times. Remember to breathe normally while doing isometrics.
Leg Lifters
Strong abdominal and leg muscles play a key role in making walking more comfortable and possible for lower body prosthetic users, notes Skoski. Include some leg raises as part of your exercises for prosthetics to strengthen your thigh and abdominal muscles, improve gait and lower risks of falling, according to the Amputee Coalition of America. Lie on your back with your legs fully extended. Tighten your stomach muscles and slowly lift your right leg toward the ceiling. Hold position five seconds. Slowly return to original position. Relax 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times. Do exercise again using your left leg.
Hand Squeezers
Individuals with artificial hands, fingers or wrists need to include squeezing exercises for prosthetics in order to restore gripping capabilities while improving hand strength and finger flexibility. Gripping plays an essential role in picking up, grasping and holding items throughout the day. Strengthen your hand grip by using a tennis ball as an exercise tool. Either stand or sit for the exercise. Place the ball into your artificial hand and squeeze tightly. Hold tension 15 seconds. Slowly release tension and relax 10 seconds. Repeat exercise 10 times. Do the exercise again using your opposite hand. Breathe normally throughout this maneuver. If you cannot find a tennis ball, substitute with a similar size rubber or exercise ball.
Shoulder Flexing
If you have undergone shoulder replacement surgery you will need to learn how to live with a shoulder prosthetic. Initial exercises for shoulder prosthetics will include some assisted shoulder maneuvers, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Your surgical shoulder muscles will not be strong enough to lift your shoulder on its own, so must be lifted with the help of your healthy arm. Sit upright in a firm chair and clasp your hands together. Gently lift your arms toward the ceiling, allowing your healthy arm to do all the work. Hold the position 10 seconds. Slowly return to original position. Relax 10 seconds. Repeat the exercise 10 times.
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