Thank you for coming with me on this little New Leg adventure!! 🥰 And a big thank you again to our sponsor, Helix Sleep! Click helixsleep.com/footlessjo for up to $200 off your Helix Sleep mattress plus two free pillows! 💜 #helixsleep
Hey Jo! Happy Holidays to you as well. As someone that has used both pinlock and vacuum systems I understand the pros and cons of both. The biggest issue with the pinlock is pin alignment. This can get very frustrating when your liner doesn't go on right and you have to keep taking it off and on top get it into the socket right.
My cousin has a ball with a button the side for quick release for when she wants to chill and watch netflix. Its very smooth too. I asked her where she got it from but she had it given her by her doctor.
For the projecting screw, when you remove the leg: maybe pick up a cheap rubber ball, drill a hole in it, and keep it in your pocket? You take the leg off, you stuff the screw into the rubber ball, and tender surfaces are protected? Just a thought!
That might depend on how the dogs are lol. There are quite a few dogs that would just chew up and destroy every ball they came across. But I guess that's the point of getting a cheap one!
I was thinking food safe silicone, ask the prosthetist about borrowing a pin, or buy a pin, some food safe silicone, and any mold, the world is then Jo's oyster, going silly tiny leg and foot, going formal color match the silicone to the outfit, it can be any shape, size, hell put a little Arduino and battery in and have RGB and sound effects, though i don't know how audible it would be, but i do know it would be hilarious
I was thinking this same thing, but for like...a prosthetic "cap" if that makes sense. A section of leg just long enough to fully accommodate the pin :)
I was thinking of something cute or colorful to match the current outfit. Soft on the outside to keep from scratching anything but easy to slip on and off
I'm not an amputee but this video surprisingly helped me feel less overwhelmed and upset about having to start wearing wigs and bandanas for my alopecia. It's been very well-controlled for 7 years now but it's recently got exponentially worse and it's no longer sustainable doing what I was before to manage flare ups. I was feeling very panicky about the future but seeing you get so excited about a big change had made me feel a little more reassured about this next stage in my journey. Thank you ♥️
I use a pin-lock sleeve combo. I love it. This way if the sleeve gets stretched or gets a leak I have the pin to keep me in it. It’s the best of both worlds
I’m not an amputee however my husband is and your channel has really helped me to better understand and learn so much about what he is going through. In September he was in a work related accident, a skid steer ran over his foot. He spent 32 days in the hospital. Six surgeries later, he had his foot amputated below the knee on October 24. Jo, your positive and bright personality and attitude has been a saving grace. There is hope. He will return to a normal life, walking hand and hand with me and playing with our baby girl. Thank you.
Shit sorry to hear that I've had plenty of close calls with equipment at my last job you really have to be aware and be trusting of your coworkers. I didn't know it would destroy your foot if it got ran over tho
I haven’t ever heard about how many types of prosthetic legs there are. Most people hear prosthetic leg and kinda think it’s a cookie-cutter design that then gets tweaked to fit each person. It’s so cool to see your journey and learn different things from your channel. Thanks for bringing us along for the ride. Can’t wait to see how different things might be with the new socket❤
Spare a thought for amputees in the past, when it pretty much WAS a cookie-cutter design (a hand-carved wooden socket) that got tweaked to fit each person bycarving the high spots on the inside a bit more or building it up low spots with a sort of putty. And I'm sure the prevailing attitude back in the day was "you'll eventually get used to it" rather than "let's see if this other way works better for you".
I got the quote, "I myself am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions." Just to help remind me that I am doing the best that I can at the moment.
If this lock system works for you I think you could keep the suction one for high impact activities and wear this on your daily life. This way you wouldn't have to worry about being out of liners and also would still have the feeling of safety that the suction system gives you! Not sure how it would work with your insurance but you could have the best of both worlds. Ps: looking forward to seeing your new tattoos when they're healed!
@@SorwestChannel In this video she says that even if the pin lock system doesn't end up working well for her, it might still be good as a back up for when the suction system fails. So I think it's possible for her to have multiple legs. And I thought I saw another video where she showed a couple of different legs she used?
@@SorwestChannel no, you dont have to return an old leg. I think the video you are thinking about she was borrowing a foot to try out. The foot didn't work out so she gave it back.
My wife is transiting from the pin-lock to the suction. Like you said every one and everybody is different. She has experienced nothing but pain with her 3 pin-lock systems. Good luck. We will be following.
I will be starting the pre-prosthesis program soon and listening to you talk about the different attachment mechanisms is very informative. The pin-lock system seems to be superior to the purely snug-fit stocking method, so I will look seriously into that option. Thank you for all the tips and I look forward to getting up out of my wheelchair and being able to walk around in a quasi-normal fashion and do a number of yard-work tasks that my amputation has prevented me from doing. I wish you every success in coming to grips with your mental roadblocks down the pike and I hope you banish most, if not all, of your demons. Carry on vlogging.
Glad to see your excited! I am a new double BK amputee and my first prosthetics were one pin socket and one vacuum socket (the vacuum was because of some fragile skin on the left from the accident.) Vacuum prosthetic with all sleeves/liners was about six pounds and the pin socket was about four. I also could not use my recumbent bike because of the impingement of the vacuum socket. I heartily agree with your comment about the longer time it takes to put on the vacuum leg. I complained enough that I was refitted with a pin on the left and I am super happy. Thanks for sharing your experience!
My wife has been using the pin lock system since I met her. She's a very active person and this system holds up very well under stress. The only issue she has ever had is if she bumps the release button on a machine at the gym. She has the clicking issue sometimes also but it's pretty easy to fix.
I have had the pin lock for two years now, my prosthetist always says this is more secure and safer for me so I stick with it. Thanks for all you do!!!
It depends on length and structure of residual limb! Longer limb more options. Also diagnosis is important as diabetic pts fluctuate in weight and swelling so fitment is extremely harder. I'm a 26 year aka from osteo, I wear a skin for suction socket and a microprocessor c leg knee! My experience the liners beat me up! Orthotech o&p are life savers! Based in Michigan but they travel the country helping where they can.
I saw the new tattoo right away and kinda smiled. Ink therapy, baby! Just to add to the stack of "things to cover the screw" suggestions, you almost certainly know someone with access to a 3D printer, and it wouldn't be hard to make a little clip-on cozy for it.
9:30 There are a couple of things you can do about the clicking. There are two options for the pin lock. There is a course tooth pin and a fine tooth pin. I prefer the fine tooth pin myself, and the lock and pin have to match, but changing the lock is not hard. The other thing is kind of surprising. Castration Bands. These are rubber bands designed to be put over the parts of a male sheep and it cuts off the blood to the parts and in a few days the parts fall off. These seem extremely inhumane to me, but I don't use them as they are meant to be used, so I reckon what I use won't be used on sheep, so there is that at least./ You put 1 or two of the bands on your pin, then you give it a hard push when you put it in. You are trying the make it so the lock is in tension and this stops it clicking. And the bands are super cheap. You can get a bag of 100 for $3 and that will be enough to last you several years. They last about a month or two so you'll be using about 10-20 per year. So a bag of 100 should last between 5 and 15 years. You can buy a bag here. And you can scare boyfriends with them too, maybe. I don't know because I don't have boyfriends, but I'd be scared if I found out my GF had a bag of castration bands. There is a tool to apply them but you don't need that because you won't be using them for what they are made for. I hope you won't be using them that way. www.valleyvet.com/ct_detail.html?pgguid=2e87c2d0-7b6a-11d5-a192-00b0d0204ae5&itemguid=3269de2b-7b6a-11d5-a192-00b0d0204ae5&sfb=1&grp=6000&grpc=6700&grpsc=6710&sp=f&ccd=IBSF0001&msclkid=3a7a3187f2911b9fbb5c522b5fa68b4c&FCAT%20Livestock%20Equip%20Supp%20(6000)%20HGPM%20Smart%20PLA%20(IBSF0001)&
Definitely will be watching to see how the pin lock system works for you. I wonder if over time this will ease some of your nerve pain. Also looking forward to seeing the new tats. Trying to find the path to being okay looks different for everyone. So great that one of your new tats is helping you. Pop
I am SOOO jealous to be able to squat down. I am a double knee replacement and when you do that you loose that ability. My pup is not allowed on the furniture but she has figured out that I will let her drape on my legs and lower body when I am in my lounge part of the couch. Pups are great companions! Let the good days out number the bad.
Pin is the way to go (I have one for siz years) don't loose the pins when you change out liners. Also the pin noise means you need a thicker/another sock (it's also wears out the pins teeth)
Congratulations with your new leg. IJhaven that system for over 30 years and i am still very pleased with it. When you’re ready used to it you can do so much more. The liners will still wear off, mine work for about 4 months before i have to order a new one…
I have been using pin&lock prosthetics for years with no issues. In fact I am a bilateral amputee so I have a right and left. Given time I’m sure you will love it!
Thank you for your honesty, about your life and strugles. You have, with others, helped me find the strength, to start my journey towards a better mental health. Your vids, have given me "the last push" to contacting my doctor, in order to get help from a psychiatrist as the first step... so THANK YOU
Jo what a relief to see you functioning in the way you are in this video. It gives me hope that I can come out of the low times that I have. There is such solidarity in the sentiment of your followers on social. I appreciate you sharing :) keep it up 💪
Babe wake up, new leg just dropped 😂 Hope it works out great for you as you adjust Jo!!! Like you said, it’s great to have more options if nothing else! Hope you had a great Christmas and have a wonderful New Year 😊❤
Thank you so much for sharing this. My double amputations are only a couple of months away. And I may not be able to use prosthetics for a while initially. I hope to use them in a year or 3. So hearing all about the pros and cons you found. Is suuuuuper helpful so thank you. Can’t wait to see your tattoos. Also. I was inspired by you to go on one last journey walking and feeling the world before I have both feet removed. And I am so happy and I’m really enjoying doing so. I’ve also been watching through all your videos from when you started your journey to now. To help give me an idea of what my experience may be like, and it has been helping with my fears around surgeries. You are such an amazing person, and RUclipsr. I hope one day I can be, even just 10%, as inspiring RUclipsr as you are.
My dad is a double BKA and to be honest, we didn't know there were really any other types of BKA prosthetics (besides the running blades). I'm glad this one is doing well with you so far! He doesn't use his prosthetics that often (other health issues) but they allowed him to be able to move around a lot when he did use them. The only issue he regularly had with them was making sure they were aligned properly when he put them on, but it sounds like you have that under control from all your experience with the suction prosthetic. I hope this prosthetic continues to do well for you! You'll have to let us know how it goes! Happy new year!
Love the new leg. Can't wait to see the tattoos up close. One word CAN be empowering. Dan Rather, from what I've heard, closed out podcasts with one word, "Steady." As in, steady as she goes, as in what a captain of a ship would tell his crew if they entered rough or unsure waters. "Steady" tells them to hold the course, and they'll make it through.
I've followed this story for a while. Thanks for being a candid spokesperson. You have brought up a lot of issues that I never considered that an amputee has to go through.
Pin lock is my favorite 😍 i have used just a sleeve, elevated vacuum with sleeve, seal in suction. I am amputee after 13 years of failed surgeries and extreme CRPS. Legs are like cars is my new favorite way to compare and explain to people.
Knowing absolutely nothing about prosthetics (except for what I have seen in some of your videos), I LOVE how this system will allow you full range of motion in your knee. I’m sure there are other +/-, but that has GOT to be a plus! So happy you have the opportunity to try more options, and I hope this new/old socket combo makes you very happy! :)
Hey. I will be shifting from a suction socket to a pin lock after 12 years. Your points of anxiety were running through my head as well over the last few days. Your video coming up at this time of my journey also helped me relieve some anxiety I had wondering how the transition would go for me. Thanks.
Hey Jo, I've been in a pin lock for about 3 weeks after wearing a traditional suction system. So far I'm convinced that this pin lock is far better. Thanks for your channel!
Congrats on your new socket! By your description this one seems much better than the other one. Taking it off and putting it on again looks so easy. You have to test it properly off course. I will admit though that I am very much in favour of simple technology and design with few parts and few things that can fail. Such things are often much more reliable than the high tech stuff.
You could maybe get skin colored tights or socks to minimize the look. I’m super happy for you and I hope this options works out for you so you can at least get a break from the restriction of range of movement and your skin gets a chance to breathe! Maybe the reduced restriction can make physical therapy/strengthening exercises easier? I hope things improve at least in some aspects for you soon. Thank you for sharing Jo!
Greetings fellow Toastmaster! My father was a below the knee amputee and wore a 80's state of the art prosthetic. It is wonderful to see the advances made. He struggled with his leg often and it is nice to see how prosthetics have advanced. I started watching your videos to see the differences between his leg and yours, but I keep watching because I am having my mobility issues that I am struggling with. Thanks!
I went the other way, I used a pin system for years then switched to suction (one-way valve, no pump). With me I did not like the bottoming out feeling, and with any activity I would get sore at the end of my stumps. I do like using a pin system when mountain biking though (legs do not come off during one of my uninvadable wipe outs). Like you said, we are all different so I hope this works for you. Also if you go back to/use suction again, i get my sleeves online (amputeestore) without going threw insurance, it is not to bad cost wise.
Not long before your leg was amputated I switched from a vacuum leg to a pin lock system. I told you after your leg was amputated and you were looking at your options about my issues with a vacuum system and how much better a pin lock worked. Frankly the vacuum system sucks. It works great when it works, but the problem is, keeping it working is a huge issue. But preferences are highly varied and I had given you the information I thought would be useful and it's not up to me what system you use so I didn't press the issue. But I think you are going to like the pin lock system. I still get to say "I told you so." 😋😋 But as much as the vacuum system sucks, it doesn't suck nearly as much as knee straps, or hip straps. Wow did those suck, But it did allow me to save my friend's life in a most EPIC fission. At summer camp I was messing around near the cliff we used to practice rock claiming. The cliff was about 150 of dead vertical granite. You are not coming out of it alive if you fall. My friend fell (I didn't see it) but he managed to grab a tiny ledge. He was too far down for me to reach , there was no way he could have held on long enough for me to get help, and I only had one thing I could use to lower to him. So I took my leg off and lowered it to him and he held onto the foot while I held the strap. The strap was not strong enough to hold him, and it broke in the end, but it held long enough for me to lift him to safety. We had to find a prosthetist who could fix my strap. So while he told the story around camp I left to get my strap fixed. When I told the guy how the strap was broken, he said he would fix it for free. He said it was the most epic amputee story he had ever heard. I'm not even sure my friend noticed I was holding my leg on with my hand as we walked back to camp. One thing about the word EPIC, it is the same as ERIC but with a missing leg. I happen to be ERIC with a missing leg.
All I can say if someone invents / build’s that holy grail of prosthetic limb and attaching method that is universally liked , easy to use, won’t fall or come off unless you want it to and most importantly is comfortable and relatively pain free. That someone will become very rich.
Finally, You have a pin lock. Good for you. Looks like a Coyote lock system. My wife quit the suction suspension after 4 months. She could not tolerate the combined liner and suction sleeve binding around her knee. At 1 year post amputation, she was in a 3 mil Iceross Pin liner and rarely ever needs a sock. Over 3 years in the same Coyote Basalt Fiber socket and Freedom Kinterra foot and ankle with just 2 liners needed each year. I couldn't understand how you could tolerate a cumbersome suction suspension with your active life.
So happy you are getting to try the pin system. I started with it and the tried the vacuum system. I am now back to the pin system after 10 years trying others. I love the simplicity of the pin myself and being able to just step and go.
Thank you for being so candid with your struggles with mental illness...it resonates with my story. I don't have any tattoos as reminders of things I should hold on to, but I would love to hear more about your tattoos.
I started with the pin lock system about two years ago as my first prosthetic. It works well for me. I started with the outer sleeve as well, but as my confidence grew I started going without it. My mobility is way better and easier to deal with pants.
Have you ever considered a Bone anchored Prosthetic? biggest benefit is that your body weight is supported directly by the bone and not the soft tissues which solves most of the problems associated with normal prosthetics. Biggest drawback is a surgery is required to implant the anchor.
Jo your amazing, I really like your videos and it’s helping me, as I’m one surgery away from my left below knee amputation…..this is a decision I never thought I have to make….appreciate you and please continue with your videos, your an awesome speaker and love the info….
8:31 Without even meaning to, you just challenged me big time: I’m watching you get your deep knee bend, and I’m really excited for you! “Yes!” I think to myself, “you could do squats now!” Wait, *I* could do squats now. And I have always had two functional legs without any chronic injury or pain. I just to need to *actually do them*. The lengths you go to just to have what was once your normal mobility are crazy, and this isn’t a “OMG you’re so inspirational” thing. It’s more like I’m getting my butt kicked to be both grateful for my mobility and to *TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT*. Thanks for continuing to post your vids. And cheers to a new leg and a new yeat🎉
I'm glad the new leg works well for you -- even if you wind up having to use it as a backup, and/or to eke out the sleeves that insurance will pay for. I'm curious about the "pin-lock" part -- just how exactly it works. I appreciate seeing the dogs, too, even though I'm sure dog hair is a Thing.
Congrats on the new leg! Wish you luck with the pin and lock, i actually went the other way. Started with that and went to elevated vacuum with sleeves because my volume was changing way too frequently and the pistoning from just walking was beginning to take it's toll. Lastly, i needed better proprioception for driving. They've both got their pros and cons but at the end of the day the vacuum system lined up more with my needs, despite it's short comings as you stated with reliability. Hope you like the pin and lock system, if not I've tried about 4 different vacuum systems and so far the one I'm on right now is the best, the Willowood LimbLogic. Let me know if you're interested in finding out more.
Thanks for the information. I don’t need a prosthetic leg but you really sold the product. I’m glad life is getting better for you and everyone with a prosthetic limb.
Us folk with all of our limbs still in place have no idea of the issues you face..... This was a very interesting video. Thank you.... Your fortitude is an inspiration...
This looks quite interesting and exciting for you! I hope you find this new system gives you more versatility and comfort. A thought about the pin that sticks out when your leg is off, you could put a small soft object on it to protect your other leg. Maybe you could make little faces or critters to have a little fun. 😁 Anyway, I wish you the best with this!!
I have chronic migraines, love your personality, be sure to track your migraines. Really helped me to get an idea of the cause and the triggers of my headaches. I use migraine buddy to track my migraines.
I just lost my foot a couple of days ago it’s good to see some options that are available my mother wound up in a wheelchair years ago it was so flustering the things I seen that would have made her life so much better but I never could find where to even find any of the stuff being made
I am an above knee amputee and I tried an adjustable socket and then a suction type without much success. I now use the pin lock type and wow. I now am looking at riding my bike, running and much more. The liner does have to be put on exactly in order for the pin to click in properly but wow. Freedom...Hope you have good results with yours
First off, I'm so happy you get to try this. I really hope it works out for you and can take the worry away regarding the higher maintainance of the suction sleeve. 💜 Edit: Just a complete random thought about the pin sticking out that could possible nick you when in chill mode. Could that be resolved by putting something on it that would be more soft? Like a soft rounded attachment/cover that is light weight + small enough to keep in a pocket and can just as easily be popped on and off 🤔 Just so one doesn't accidentally hurt themselves.
I started out with pin lock and mine wasn't sharp enough to nick my skin. It was blunt on the end. Maybe different brands are sharper, but mine didn't feel like I could injure myself. It just looked weird having a screw protruding from my chopped off leg.
@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures ah I see, well that's a relief to hear that they are actually quite blunt on the end! Thank you for your comment! I really appreciate it!
@@aidanham Blunt or not, I do feel there's an opportunity for amputee jousting. Like get in a wheelchair and use the pin lock liners instead of jousting sticks, lol.
I wear pin lock for my prosthetic arm, which I had tuned for far out /"extreme" loads, whereas the "pickup/all terrain" is *proverbially* true here. To avoid all friction/rash, I wear Molnlycke tubular cotton gauze directly on the skin. I did get the special screw driver to fasten the pin lock at the bottom/inside of the socket, it needs re-fastening every now and then.
As a left BKA, I started with the pin-lock system, but am now using a suction sleeve/leg. My main issue with pin-lock is my leg expands & shrinks throughout the day, requiring me to adjust the number of sleeves up to 10+ times daily. However, I must also mention that I am on dialysis. So I sometimes lose 5-7 pounds of water weight during a single dialysis session, three times every week. The looseness of the leg finally created a hot-spot where the leg bone was grinding into the skin on my stump. It never became an open sore, but I was still in a wheelchair for a large part of every day. I love my suction sleeve, since it always keeps my leg tight against the prosthetic. I pray that you have great success with your pin-lock system. Keep us up-to-date. I really enjoy your videos!
At Hanger. We would do a socket, with skin tone pigment that closely matches your complexion. And a matching foam piece over the upright tube. On a socket like yours, on occasion, we would laminate in, under the clear an emblem of your choice. Like we had on soldier brought us a USMC emblem to add to the laminate. Front and center. Sadly, even the government will only cover so much.
Pin lock has been the only recommendation from my prosthetist since I started my journey. Basically said if I’m not a cross country runner (which I’m definitely not), then it’s the best most safe option. I’m glad it’s working for you!
You are absolutely wonderful Jo thank you for sharing your journey with us. I have all the hope that your new leg is a lifechanging device for you, in only the best ways of course. Please continue to keep us updated no matter what happens with it. I personally would love to see your new tattoos (especially the "yet" I'm now tempted to get something similar to reflect my journey and whats yet to come). But only when you feel confident and comfortable enough to show them.
New leg, let's go!!!! I admire your honesty and bravery in putting your story out here like this. Vulnerability can be so hard, especially when you're not okay. But in doing so, you've managed to create such a lovely community of people who listen, people who want to learn, people who feel heard, and people who feel braver because you're here. I feel braver, too. Thanks for being you.
Today I’m getting the casting process done. I’ve been spending tons of time watching videos and researching everything I need to know, as I’m going back to work once I’ve gotten upright and mobile again. I’m leaning more towards the pin lock system as I work in an industrial environment and my BKA prosthetic falling off would be very bad. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I picked up my pin-lock a couple of weeks ago as well, and much easier on and off from the sleeve-suction system. And you can easily go back to it if there is a problem mechanically with the pin.
Git a tattoo this year and it's been great for my mental health. For me it's a lovely way I can easily look at and feel more connected with my body instead of feeling distanced from it, as well as a reminder of some ideals I've worked on and continue to work on. Totally feel you on it being helpful. Wishing you best of luck with the mental health and with the new attachment system. Hurray for having more options
I went through a period of being unable to walk because of a completely different type of medical problem, but it really gives me hope for myself to see other people moving forward. Thank you for sharing.
As far as that exposed steel post, you could get a slip on heavy duty rubbery cap to protect other things as well as the post. I'm surprised they don't have a stubby snap-lock cap. have a great day, and a Happy New Year
Oh man! I totally get the struggle of having to choose a piece of medical equipment, not knowing if it will work right for you, but you are stuck with it for months/years regardless due to insurance funding. I hope this new socket system improves day to day life for you! (And if not, you learn something along the way!)
I have been using a pin and lock for 10 years and I've only broken one but the problem was not in the lock. I did have a cheap lock system that failed but this was really just a matter of the guys giving me a cheap lock. I tried using a vacuum system but though I understand it is more comfortable for things like running, the moment you put your knee on the ground, you've shredded the liner and it's worthless. I think you're going to like this method. It's the simplest and most stable and the only one I use anymore. Good luck and take it easy on yourself.
Wow, I have no idea why your video pooped up in my feed, but after listening I cannot imagine how hard it is to have to worry about the suction of your leg etc. going someplace. I have anxiety which turns into panic attacks pretty fast. If I had to go through any of what you are, I'd for sure become housebound. Being an introvert I already stay home, more than most. You're a very strong woman. 🤩
I'm actually in talks with the company who has the patent for the pin system. I came up with a keyed fin style replacement for the pin system. Also look into the Ohio Willow Wood one system. I am currently rocking that system and im looking at replacing the vacuum pump in it for an air pump that releases air as you walk in it instead of needing to have a rechargeable pump.
I wear a prostectic leg although a below knee Amp, My prostectic is a unique one, it is made so I step into it, my stump and knee float free while all my weight is taken on the top part that takes the weight under my butt cheek, 42 years this August, best system ever for me!
Hi Jo, I totally agree with your comments. I too, use a suction system and have to replace the sleeves way too often. I find the top edge of my socket caused most of the holes in my sleeves. I tried the pin lock system but it caused so much suction on the end of my residual limb that it pulled a giant hematoma and had to stop using it. Best of luck, I hope it works out for you. Ken
I found that the pin needed to be checked for tightness reasonably often otherwise it would make a clicking noise... you may find the pain level will drop as your leg adjusts to the new system... I have never looked back since switching to the pin lock system... hope it works out for you👍
You're channel is so insightful, I've learned some things that I didn't know prior to stumbling upon your channel, much respect to you for you're candor. in the past I've had to have brace stabilizers fitted which required molds of my lower extremities hence I have some modest familiarity with the molding proccess but of course there's a lot that I didn't & don't know associated with you're specific physical challenges, I hope 2023 is a good year for all of us, happy upcoming new year Jo ✨
Yay!! I am so happy you posted a new video!! I am happy you are trying a new type of leg as well. I love your channel immensely and I thank you for sharing your journey with us!! Your dogs are so cute!!
![Finally Telling the REAL Story: The Lawsuit Over My Amputation [CC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/xNTBF2JTx7U/mqdefault.jpg)
![Finally Telling the REAL Story: The Lawsuit Over My Amputation [CC]](/img/tr.png)
Thank you for coming with me on this little New Leg adventure!! 🥰
And a big thank you again to our sponsor, Helix Sleep! Click helixsleep.com/footlessjo for up to $200 off your Helix Sleep mattress plus two free pillows! 💜 #helixsleep
Hey Jo! Happy Holidays to you as well. As someone that has used both pinlock and vacuum systems I understand the pros and cons of both. The biggest issue with the pinlock is pin alignment. This can get very frustrating when your liner doesn't go on right and you have to keep taking it off and on top get it into the socket right.
My cousin has a ball with a button the side for quick release for when she wants to chill and watch netflix. Its very smooth too. I asked her where she got it from but she had it given her by her doctor.
Unfortunately my risidual limb below knee is to short for pin lock. I now have vacuum - started with suction. Luv your videos.
you are awesome Jo...
For the projecting screw, when you remove the leg: maybe pick up a cheap rubber ball, drill a hole in it, and keep it in your pocket? You take the leg off, you stuff the screw into the rubber ball, and tender surfaces are protected?
Just a thought!
That might depend on how the dogs are lol. There are quite a few dogs that would just chew up and destroy every ball they came across. But I guess that's the point of getting a cheap one!
Mmm I was thinking like stiff putty
I was thinking food safe silicone, ask the prosthetist about borrowing a pin, or buy a pin, some food safe silicone, and any mold, the world is then Jo's oyster, going silly tiny leg and foot, going formal color match the silicone to the outfit, it can be any shape, size, hell put a little Arduino and battery in and have RGB and sound effects, though i don't know how audible it would be, but i do know it would be hilarious
I was thinking this same thing, but for like...a prosthetic "cap" if that makes sense. A section of leg just long enough to fully accommodate the pin :)
I was thinking of something cute or colorful to match the current outfit. Soft on the outside to keep from scratching anything but easy to slip on and off
I'm not an amputee but this video surprisingly helped me feel less overwhelmed and upset about having to start wearing wigs and bandanas for my alopecia. It's been very well-controlled for 7 years now but it's recently got exponentially worse and it's no longer sustainable doing what I was before to manage flare ups. I was feeling very panicky about the future but seeing you get so excited about a big change had made me feel a little more reassured about this next stage in my journey. Thank you ♥️
Change is always scary at first, but change is also the only opportunity for things to get better sometimes. You got this :)
@@julesc1989 thanks so much! I''m definitely between a rock and hard place but something has to give. I'm so ready to not let this control/define me 💪
I read that as "...and bananas" 😄
@@grantm6514 haha I'm always the same 😂
I hope the next stage in your journey goes well Hannah and even though it sounds like it will be difficult I hope you find the end of it soon ☺️.
I use a pin-lock sleeve combo. I love it. This way if the sleeve gets stretched or gets a leak I have the pin to keep me in it. It’s the best of both worlds
I have a pin lock sleeve combo it’s alot better than the other one I had :)
I am thinking of one but does it add more pressure at end of stump
I’m not an amputee however my husband is and your channel has really helped me to better understand and learn so much about what he is going through. In September he was in a work related accident, a skid steer ran over his foot. He spent 32 days in the hospital. Six surgeries later, he had his foot amputated below the knee on October 24.
Jo, your positive and bright personality and attitude has been a saving grace. There is hope. He will return to a normal life, walking hand and hand with me and playing with our baby girl. Thank you.
Shit sorry to hear that I've had plenty of close calls with equipment at my last job you really have to be aware and be trusting of your coworkers. I didn't know it would destroy your foot if it got ran over tho
How is your doing now?
I haven’t ever heard about how many types of prosthetic legs there are. Most people hear prosthetic leg and kinda think it’s a cookie-cutter design that then gets tweaked to fit each person. It’s so cool to see your journey and learn different things from your channel. Thanks for bringing us along for the ride. Can’t wait to see how different things might be with the new socket❤
I'm in this boat. Prior to finding this channel I thought they were all relatively similar. Had no clue that crazy tech that was going into it.
Spare a thought for amputees in the past, when it pretty much WAS a cookie-cutter design (a hand-carved wooden socket) that got tweaked to fit each person bycarving the high spots on the inside a bit more or building it up low spots with a sort of putty. And I'm sure the prevailing attitude back in the day was "you'll eventually get used to it" rather than "let's see if this other way works better for you".
My friend needs a prosthetic leg. Her leg was cut off just above the knee. What kind of leg do you recommend for her.
NEW LEG NEW LEG!!!
I got the quote, "I myself am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions." Just to help remind me that I am doing the best that I can at the moment.
I love how the dogs are just chilling on the bed as she’s doing the ad!
They get comfy wherever they are! 🥰 As they should!
Yes to close-up of tattoos when you’re ready. It’s good to hear that they’re already helping.
I love how her dogs are just like " doot a doot a doot" while shes making the videos. They are so cute!
If this lock system works for you I think you could keep the suction one for high impact activities and wear this on your daily life. This way you wouldn't have to worry about being out of liners and also would still have the feeling of safety that the suction system gives you! Not sure how it would work with your insurance but you could have the best of both worlds.
Ps: looking forward to seeing your new tattoos when they're healed!
From what I understood from another video, when she gets the new leg she needs to return the old one.
@@SorwestChannel In this video she says that even if the pin lock system doesn't end up working well for her, it might still be good as a back up for when the suction system fails. So I think it's possible for her to have multiple legs. And I thought I saw another video where she showed a couple of different legs she used?
@@SorwestChannel no, you dont have to return an old leg. I think the video you are thinking about she was borrowing a foot to try out. The foot didn't work out so she gave it back.
My wife is transiting from the pin-lock to the suction. Like you said every one and everybody is different. She has experienced nothing but pain with her 3 pin-lock systems. Good luck. We will be following.
I will be starting the pre-prosthesis program soon and listening to you talk about the different attachment mechanisms is very informative. The pin-lock system seems to be superior to the purely snug-fit stocking method, so I will look seriously into that option. Thank you for all the tips and I look forward to getting up out of my wheelchair and being able to walk around in a quasi-normal fashion and do a number of yard-work tasks that my amputation has prevented me from doing. I wish you every success in coming to grips with your mental roadblocks down the pike and I hope you banish most, if not all, of your demons. Carry on vlogging.
Glad to see your excited! I am a new double BK amputee and my first prosthetics were one pin socket and one vacuum socket (the vacuum was because of some fragile skin on the left from the accident.) Vacuum prosthetic with all sleeves/liners was about six pounds and the pin socket was about four. I also could not use my recumbent bike because of the impingement of the vacuum socket. I heartily agree with your comment about the longer time it takes to put on the vacuum leg. I complained enough that I was refitted with a pin on the left and I am super happy. Thanks for sharing your experience!
My wife has been using the pin lock system since I met her. She's a very active person and this system holds up very well under stress. The only issue she has ever had is if she bumps the release button on a machine at the gym. She has the clicking issue sometimes also but it's pretty easy to fix.
I have had the pin lock for two years now, my prosthetist always says this is more secure and safer for me so I stick with it. Thanks for all you do!!!
It depends on length and structure of residual limb! Longer limb more options. Also diagnosis is important as diabetic pts fluctuate in weight and swelling so fitment is extremely harder. I'm a 26 year aka from osteo, I wear a skin for suction socket and a microprocessor c leg knee! My experience the liners beat me up! Orthotech o&p are life savers! Based in Michigan but they travel the country helping where they can.
I saw the new tattoo right away and kinda smiled. Ink therapy, baby! Just to add to the stack of "things to cover the screw" suggestions, you almost certainly know someone with access to a 3D printer, and it wouldn't be hard to make a little clip-on cozy for it.
9:30 There are a couple of things you can do about the clicking. There are two options for the pin lock. There is a course tooth pin and a fine tooth pin. I prefer the fine tooth pin myself, and the lock and pin have to match, but changing the lock is not hard.
The other thing is kind of surprising. Castration Bands. These are rubber bands designed to be put over the parts of a male sheep and it cuts off the blood to the parts and in a few days the parts fall off. These seem extremely inhumane to me, but I don't use them as they are meant to be used, so I reckon what I use won't be used on sheep, so there is that at least./
You put 1 or two of the bands on your pin, then you give it a hard push when you put it in. You are trying the make it so the lock is in tension and this stops it clicking.
And the bands are super cheap. You can get a bag of 100 for $3 and that will be enough to last you several years. They last about a month or two so you'll be using about 10-20 per year. So a bag of 100 should last between 5 and 15 years.
You can buy a bag here. And you can scare boyfriends with them too, maybe. I don't know because I don't have boyfriends, but I'd be scared if I found out my GF had a bag of castration bands. There is a tool to apply them but you don't need that because you won't be using them for what they are made for. I hope you won't be using them that way.
www.valleyvet.com/ct_detail.html?pgguid=2e87c2d0-7b6a-11d5-a192-00b0d0204ae5&itemguid=3269de2b-7b6a-11d5-a192-00b0d0204ae5&sfb=1&grp=6000&grpc=6700&grpsc=6710&sp=f&ccd=IBSF0001&msclkid=3a7a3187f2911b9fbb5c522b5fa68b4c&FCAT%20Livestock%20Equip%20Supp%20(6000)%20HGPM%20Smart%20PLA%20(IBSF0001)&
Won't the bands get stuck inside the hole where the pin goes?
Definitely will be watching to see how the pin lock system works for you. I wonder if over time this will ease some of your nerve pain.
Also looking forward to seeing the new tats. Trying to find the path to being okay looks different for everyone. So great that one of your new tats is helping you. Pop
I am SOOO jealous to be able to squat down. I am a double knee replacement and when you do that you loose that ability. My pup is not allowed on the furniture but she has figured out that I will let her drape on my legs and lower body when I am in my lounge part of the couch. Pups are great companions! Let the good days out number the bad.
Pin is the way to go (I have one for siz years) don't loose the pins when you change out liners. Also the pin noise means you need a thicker/another sock (it's also wears out the pins teeth)
Have you tried a liner with a rubber seal ring? Full range of motion and no outer liner. I love it!
Congratulations with your new leg. IJhaven that system for over 30 years and i am still very pleased with it. When you’re ready used to it you can do so much more. The liners will still wear off, mine work for about 4 months before i have to order a new one…
I have been using pin&lock prosthetics for years with no issues. In fact I am a bilateral amputee so I have a right and left. Given time I’m sure you will love it!
Thank you for your honesty, about your life and strugles. You have, with others, helped me find the strength, to start my journey towards a better mental health. Your vids, have given me "the last push" to contacting my doctor, in order to get help from a psychiatrist as the first step... so THANK YOU
Jo what a relief to see you functioning in the way you are in this video. It gives me hope that I can come out of the low times that I have. There is such solidarity in the sentiment of your followers on social. I appreciate you sharing :) keep it up 💪
Babe wake up, new leg just dropped 😂
Hope it works out great for you as you adjust Jo!!! Like you said, it’s great to have more options if nothing else! Hope you had a great Christmas and have a wonderful New Year 😊❤
Thank you so much for sharing this. My double amputations are only a couple of months away. And I may not be able to use prosthetics for a while initially. I hope to use them in a year or 3. So hearing all about the pros and cons you found. Is suuuuuper helpful so thank you. Can’t wait to see your tattoos. Also. I was inspired by you to go on one last journey walking and feeling the world before I have both feet removed. And I am so happy and I’m really enjoying doing so. I’ve also been watching through all your videos from when you started your journey to now. To help give me an idea of what my experience may be like, and it has been helping with my fears around surgeries. You are such an amazing person, and RUclipsr. I hope one day I can be, even just 10%, as inspiring RUclipsr as you are.
My dad is a double BKA and to be honest, we didn't know there were really any other types of BKA prosthetics (besides the running blades). I'm glad this one is doing well with you so far! He doesn't use his prosthetics that often (other health issues) but they allowed him to be able to move around a lot when he did use them. The only issue he regularly had with them was making sure they were aligned properly when he put them on, but it sounds like you have that under control from all your experience with the suction prosthetic. I hope this prosthetic continues to do well for you! You'll have to let us know how it goes! Happy new year!
Love the new leg. Can't wait to see the tattoos up close. One word CAN be empowering. Dan Rather, from what I've heard, closed out podcasts with one word, "Steady." As in, steady as she goes, as in what a captain of a ship would tell his crew if they entered rough or unsure waters. "Steady" tells them to hold the course, and they'll make it through.
I've followed this story for a while. Thanks for being a candid spokesperson. You have brought up a lot of issues that I never considered that an amputee has to go through.
Pin lock is my favorite 😍 i have used just a sleeve, elevated vacuum with sleeve, seal in suction. I am amputee after 13 years of failed surgeries and extreme CRPS. Legs are like cars is my new favorite way to compare and explain to people.
You are amazing Jo! Thanks for teaching me so many things about being an amputee and about prosthetics.
Ok but the dog at 1:05 is with his head on the squish allow is amazing. Keep making videos Jo!
Knowing absolutely nothing about prosthetics (except for what I have seen in some of your videos), I LOVE how this system will allow you full range of motion in your knee. I’m sure there are other +/-, but that has GOT to be a plus! So happy you have the opportunity to try more options, and I hope this new/old socket combo makes you very happy! :)
Hey. I will be shifting from a suction socket to a pin lock after 12 years. Your points of anxiety were running through my head as well over the last few days. Your video coming up at this time of my journey also helped me relieve some anxiety I had wondering how the transition would go for me. Thanks.
A sock suggestion to make an outfit more cohesive, would 100% be a thigh-high or over-the-knee sock paired with your nubbin sock! Bonus, warm legs. 😊
Hey Jo,
I've been in a pin lock for about 3 weeks after wearing a traditional suction system. So far I'm convinced that this pin lock is far better. Thanks for your channel!
Congrats on your new socket! By your description this one seems much better than the other one. Taking it off and putting it on again looks so easy. You have to test it properly off course.
I will admit though that I am very much in favour of simple technology and design with few parts and few things that can fail. Such things are often much more reliable than the high tech stuff.
You could maybe get skin colored tights or socks to minimize the look. I’m super happy for you and I hope this options works out for you so you can at least get a break from the restriction of range of movement and your skin gets a chance to breathe! Maybe the reduced restriction can make physical therapy/strengthening exercises easier? I hope things improve at least in some aspects for you soon. Thank you for sharing Jo!
Greetings fellow Toastmaster!
My father was a below the knee amputee and wore a 80's state of the art prosthetic. It is wonderful to see the advances made. He struggled with his leg often and it is nice to see how prosthetics have advanced.
I started watching your videos to see the differences between his leg and yours, but I keep watching because I am having my mobility issues that I am struggling with. Thanks!
I went the other way, I used a pin system for years then switched to suction (one-way valve, no pump). With me I did not like the bottoming out feeling, and with any activity I would get sore at the end of my stumps. I do like using a pin system when mountain biking though (legs do not come off during one of my uninvadable wipe outs). Like you said, we are all different so I hope this works for you. Also if you go back to/use suction again, i get my sleeves online (amputeestore) without going threw insurance, it is not to bad cost wise.
Not long before your leg was amputated I switched from a vacuum leg to a pin lock system. I told you after your leg was amputated and you were looking at your options about my issues with a vacuum system and how much better a pin lock worked. Frankly the vacuum system sucks. It works great when it works, but the problem is, keeping it working is a huge issue.
But preferences are highly varied and I had given you the information I thought would be useful and it's not up to me what system you use so I didn't press the issue.
But I think you are going to like the pin lock system. I still get to say "I told you so." 😋😋
But as much as the vacuum system sucks, it doesn't suck nearly as much as knee straps, or hip straps. Wow did those suck, But it did allow me to save my friend's life in a most EPIC fission.
At summer camp I was messing around near the cliff we used to practice rock claiming. The cliff was about 150 of dead vertical granite. You are not coming out of it alive if you fall.
My friend fell (I didn't see it) but he managed to grab a tiny ledge. He was too far down for me to reach , there was no way he could have held on long enough for me to get help, and I only had one thing I could use to lower to him. So I took my leg off and lowered it to him and he held onto the foot while I held the strap.
The strap was not strong enough to hold him, and it broke in the end, but it held long enough for me to lift him to safety.
We had to find a prosthetist who could fix my strap. So while he told the story around camp I left to get my strap fixed. When I told the guy how the strap was broken, he said he would fix it for free. He said it was the most epic amputee story he had ever heard.
I'm not even sure my friend noticed I was holding my leg on with my hand as we walked back to camp.
One thing about the word EPIC, it is the same as ERIC but with a missing leg. I happen to be ERIC with a missing leg.
All I can say if someone invents / build’s that holy grail of prosthetic limb and attaching method that is universally liked , easy to use, won’t fall or come off unless you want it to and most importantly is comfortable and relatively pain free. That someone will become very rich.
Finally, You have a pin lock. Good for you. Looks like a Coyote lock system. My wife quit the suction suspension after 4 months. She could not tolerate the combined liner and suction sleeve binding around her knee. At 1 year post amputation, she was in a 3 mil Iceross Pin liner and rarely ever needs a sock. Over 3 years in the same Coyote Basalt Fiber socket and Freedom Kinterra foot and ankle with just 2 liners needed each year. I couldn't understand how you could tolerate a cumbersome suction suspension with your active life.
So happy you are getting to try the pin system. I started with it and the tried the vacuum system. I am now back to the pin system after 10 years trying others. I love the simplicity of the pin myself and being able to just step and go.
Thank you for being so candid with your struggles with mental illness...it resonates with my story. I don't have any tattoos as reminders of things I should hold on to, but I would love to hear more about your tattoos.
new tattoos are therapy in and of themselves 😊 hope the new leg works out 🤙
I started with the pin lock system about two years ago as my first prosthetic. It works well for me. I started with the outer sleeve as well, but as my confidence grew I started going without it. My mobility is way better and easier to deal with pants.
Have you ever considered a Bone anchored Prosthetic? biggest benefit is that your body weight is supported directly by the bone and not the soft tissues which solves most of the problems associated with normal prosthetics. Biggest drawback is a surgery is required to implant the anchor.
Jo your amazing, I really like your videos and it’s helping me, as I’m one surgery away from my left below knee amputation…..this is a decision I never thought I have to make….appreciate you and please continue with your videos, your an awesome speaker and love the info….
Looks like a cool option. Re: the bare pin, could you add a rubber or fluff cap of some kind to protect your skin leg when you take your leg off?
8:31
Without even meaning to, you just challenged me big time:
I’m watching you get your deep knee bend, and I’m really excited for you! “Yes!” I think to myself, “you could do squats now!”
Wait, *I* could do squats now. And I have always had two functional legs without any chronic injury or pain. I just to need to *actually do them*.
The lengths you go to just to have what was once your normal mobility are crazy, and this isn’t a “OMG you’re so inspirational” thing. It’s more like I’m getting my butt kicked to be both grateful for my mobility and to *TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT*.
Thanks for continuing to post your vids. And cheers to a new leg and a new yeat🎉
I'm glad the new leg works well for you -- even if you wind up having to use it as a backup, and/or to eke out the sleeves that insurance will pay for. I'm curious about the "pin-lock" part -- just how exactly it works.
I appreciate seeing the dogs, too, even though I'm sure dog hair is a Thing.
Congrats on the new leg! Wish you luck with the pin and lock, i actually went the other way. Started with that and went to elevated vacuum with sleeves because my volume was changing way too frequently and the pistoning from just walking was beginning to take it's toll. Lastly, i needed better proprioception for driving.
They've both got their pros and cons but at the end of the day the vacuum system lined up more with my needs, despite it's short comings as you stated with reliability.
Hope you like the pin and lock system, if not I've tried about 4 different vacuum systems and so far the one I'm on right now is the best, the Willowood LimbLogic. Let me know if you're interested in finding out more.
You could make some kind of nubbin pin cover/cap that you can pop on to protect yourself!
Thanks for the information. I don’t need a prosthetic leg but you really sold the product. I’m glad life is getting better for you and everyone with a prosthetic limb.
Us folk with all of our limbs still in place have no idea of the issues you face..... This was a very interesting video. Thank you.... Your fortitude is an inspiration...
This looks quite interesting and exciting for you! I hope you find this new system gives you more versatility and comfort. A thought about the pin that sticks out when your leg is off, you could put a small soft object on it to protect your other leg. Maybe you could make little faces or critters to have a little fun. 😁 Anyway, I wish you the best with this!!
I have chronic migraines, love your personality, be sure to track your migraines. Really helped me to get an idea of the cause and the triggers of my headaches. I use migraine buddy to track my migraines.
I had the pin lock and it was too painful, so I was just fitted with the suction type you just showed, much more comfortable
They should make a cover that connects to the pin, just like the leg does, to protect it.
I just lost my foot a couple of days ago it’s good to see some options that are available my mother wound up in a wheelchair years ago it was so flustering the things I seen that would have made her life so much better but I never could find where to even find any of the stuff being made
I am an above knee amputee and I tried an adjustable socket and then a suction type without much success. I now use the pin lock type and wow. I now am looking at riding my bike, running and much more. The liner does have to be put on exactly in order for the pin to click in properly but wow. Freedom...Hope you have good results with yours
First off, I'm so happy you get to try this. I really hope it works out for you and can take the worry away regarding the higher maintainance of the suction sleeve. 💜
Edit: Just a complete random thought about the pin sticking out that could possible nick you when in chill mode. Could that be resolved by putting something on it that would be more soft? Like a soft rounded attachment/cover that is light weight + small enough to keep in a pocket and can just as easily be popped on and off 🤔 Just so one doesn't accidentally hurt themselves.
Maybe a tennis ball 🎾
if you want to be a smarty, how 'bout a leg from a barbie doll?? (please, i'm not trying to be rude - i'm just weird.)
I started out with pin lock and mine wasn't sharp enough to nick my skin. It was blunt on the end. Maybe different brands are sharper, but mine didn't feel like I could injure myself. It just looked weird having a screw protruding from my chopped off leg.
@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures ah I see, well that's a relief to hear that they are actually quite blunt on the end! Thank you for your comment! I really appreciate it!
@@aidanham Blunt or not, I do feel there's an opportunity for amputee jousting. Like get in a wheelchair and use the pin lock liners instead of jousting sticks, lol.
I wear pin lock for my prosthetic arm, which I had tuned for far out /"extreme" loads, whereas the "pickup/all terrain" is *proverbially* true here. To avoid all friction/rash, I wear Molnlycke tubular cotton gauze directly on the skin. I did get the special screw driver to fasten the pin lock at the bottom/inside of the socket, it needs re-fastening every now and then.
I'm so happy for you! I'm not an amputee but these videos are very informing.
As a left BKA, I started with the pin-lock system, but am now using a suction sleeve/leg. My main issue with pin-lock is my leg expands & shrinks throughout the day, requiring me to adjust the number of sleeves up to 10+ times daily. However, I must also mention that I am on dialysis. So I sometimes lose 5-7 pounds of water weight during a single dialysis session, three times every week.
The looseness of the leg finally created a hot-spot where the leg bone was grinding into the skin on my stump. It never became an open sore, but I was still in a wheelchair for a large part of every day.
I love my suction sleeve, since it always keeps my leg tight against the prosthetic.
I pray that you have great success with your pin-lock system. Keep us up-to-date. I really enjoy your videos!
The range of technology out there is incredible and I’m glad you’re finding the best thing for you!
At Hanger. We would do a socket, with skin tone pigment that closely matches your complexion. And a matching foam piece over the upright tube. On a socket like yours, on occasion, we would laminate in, under the clear an emblem of your choice. Like we had on soldier brought us a USMC emblem to add to the laminate. Front and center. Sadly, even the government will only cover so much.
Hi Jo I’m getting my new legs in couple weeks and I cannot wait to get rid of the annoying suspension sleeves 🎉xx
Pin lock has been the only recommendation from my prosthetist since I started my journey. Basically said if I’m not a cross country runner (which I’m definitely not), then it’s the best most safe option. I’m glad it’s working for you!
You are absolutely wonderful Jo thank you for sharing your journey with us. I have all the hope that your new leg is a lifechanging device for you, in only the best ways of course. Please continue to keep us updated no matter what happens with it. I personally would love to see your new tattoos (especially the "yet" I'm now tempted to get something similar to reflect my journey and whats yet to come). But only when you feel confident and comfortable enough to show them.
New leg, let's go!!!!
I admire your honesty and bravery in putting your story out here like this. Vulnerability can be so hard, especially when you're not okay. But in doing so, you've managed to create such a lovely community of people who listen, people who want to learn, people who feel heard, and people who feel braver because you're here. I feel braver, too. Thanks for being you.
Congrats on the new leg and tattoos!
Hope you had a good Christmas and that 2023 brings only good things for you!
Today I’m getting the casting process done. I’ve been spending tons of time watching videos and researching everything I need to know, as I’m going back to work once I’ve gotten upright and mobile again. I’m leaning more towards the pin lock system as I work in an industrial environment and my BKA prosthetic falling off would be very bad. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I picked up my pin-lock a couple of weeks ago as well, and much easier on and off from the sleeve-suction system. And you can easily go back to it if there is a problem mechanically with the pin.
Git a tattoo this year and it's been great for my mental health. For me it's a lovely way I can easily look at and feel more connected with my body instead of feeling distanced from it, as well as a reminder of some ideals I've worked on and continue to work on. Totally feel you on it being helpful.
Wishing you best of luck with the mental health and with the new attachment system. Hurray for having more options
I went through a period of being unable to walk because of a completely different type of medical problem, but it really gives me hope for myself to see other people moving forward. Thank you for sharing.
You sound so pleased with your new leg that it makes me excited for you. I wish you lots of great adventures!
its so cool to get to know the different varieties ! hope this works out better for you :D
As far as that exposed steel post, you could get a slip on heavy duty rubbery cap to protect other things as well as the post. I'm surprised they don't have a stubby snap-lock cap.
have a great day, and a Happy New Year
Oh man! I totally get the struggle of having to choose a piece of medical equipment, not knowing if it will work right for you, but you are stuck with it for months/years regardless due to insurance funding. I hope this new socket system improves day to day life for you! (And if not, you learn something along the way!)
Great to see you get something that seems to work well. I hope it works for all your activities.
I have been using a pin and lock for 10 years and I've only broken one but the problem was not in the lock. I did have a cheap lock system that failed but this was really just a matter of the guys giving me a cheap lock. I tried using a vacuum system but though I understand it is more comfortable for things like running, the moment you put your knee on the ground, you've shredded the liner and it's worthless. I think you're going to like this method. It's the simplest and most stable and the only one I use anymore. Good luck and take it easy on yourself.
Wow, I have no idea why your video pooped up in my feed, but after listening I cannot imagine how hard it is to have to worry about the suction of your leg etc. going someplace. I have anxiety which turns into panic attacks pretty fast. If I had to go through any of what you are, I'd for sure become housebound. Being an introvert I already stay home, more than most. You're a very strong woman. 🤩
I'm actually in talks with the company who has the patent for the pin system. I came up with a keyed fin style replacement for the pin system. Also look into the Ohio Willow Wood one system. I am currently rocking that system and im looking at replacing the vacuum pump in it for an air pump that releases air as you walk in it instead of needing to have a rechargeable pump.
Thanks for teaching me something new today! I hope it works out for you!
Yay for tattoos!! Can't wait to see it!
You are such a wonderful person and you bring delight to my heart each time I watch one of your videos. Thank you!
I wear a prostectic leg although a below knee Amp, My prostectic is a unique one, it is made so I step into it, my stump and knee float free while all my weight is taken on the top part that takes the weight under my butt cheek, 42 years this August, best system ever for me!
Thanks!
that dog is such a pretty baby
Hi Jo, I totally agree with your comments. I too, use a suction system and have to replace the sleeves way too often. I find the top edge of my socket caused most of the holes in my sleeves. I tried the pin lock system but it caused so much suction on the end of my residual limb that it pulled a giant hematoma and had to stop using it. Best of luck, I hope it works out for you.
Ken
I found that the pin needed to be checked for tightness reasonably often otherwise it would make a clicking noise... you may find the pain level will drop as your leg adjusts to the new system... I have never looked back since switching to the pin lock system... hope it works out for you👍
You're channel is so insightful, I've learned some things that I didn't know prior to stumbling upon your channel, much respect to you for you're candor. in the past I've had to have brace stabilizers fitted which required molds of my lower extremities hence I have some modest familiarity with the molding proccess but of course there's a lot that I didn't & don't know associated with you're specific physical challenges, I hope 2023 is a good year for all of us, happy upcoming new year Jo ✨
Yay!! I am so happy you posted a new video!! I am happy you are trying a new type of leg as well. I love your channel immensely and I thank you for sharing your journey with us!! Your dogs are so cute!!
Thank you Jo! I get to try in my “first” leg on Friday! You are truly inspiring. A legend. Thank you for sharing your expertise!💪🏼
I’m so happy for you Jo! I hope things work out wonderfully! 😊
For those of us that dont wear a prosthetic this is so educational! Thank you so much for sharing!!