What is one method to toughen the stump after a BKA?

Pushing the stump against a wall is an effective method to toughen the stump after a below-knee amputation (BKA). This technique promotes the adaptation of the skin and underlying tissues to pressure and friction, which is essential for developing a robust and resilient residual limb. The process helps the skin to become more durable over time, which is important for comfort when wearing a prosthetic limb, as it will be subjected to similar forces.

In contrast, keeping the stump constantly covered with a bandage or avoiding any contact with objects can hinder the natural healing process and delay the toughening of the skin. Bandaging the stump without allowing it to experience contact can prevent the necessary stimulation for toughening. Additionally, soaking the stump in warm water does not provide the same type of mechanical stimulation needed for toughening and may even lead to maceration of the skin if done excessively. Thus, actively engaging the stump with controlled pressure, like pushing it against a wall, is beneficial for achieving the desired toughening effect.