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Emergency Situations – FAQ’S

Keep a backup mobility aid at home
Store a basic first aid kit and wound care supplies
Save key contact numbers in your phone and on a card in your wallet
Carry a doctor’s letter if travelling with prosthetics/equipment
Know the signs of infection and when to seek urgent help

emergency steel bones
What if my prosthetic limb breaks or stops working suddenly?
  • Stop using it immediately to avoid falls or injury.
  • Use your backup mobility aid (crutches, wheelchair, walker) if available.
  • Contact your limb centre/prosthetist as soon as possible.
  • If you’re travelling, call ahead to the nearest limb centre or ask your insurer about emergency repairs.
What if I fall and injure my residual limb?
  • Check for bleeding, swelling, or deformity.
  • If there is heavy bleeding:
    • Apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
    • Call 999 (UK) or local emergency number
  • If it’s painful but not severe, avoid weight-bearing and contact your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I experience sudden severe pain in my residual limb?
  • Phantom pain and nerve pain are common, but sudden new severe pain could signal infection, poor circulation, or another issue.
  • Rest, remove the prosthesis, and check the skin.
  • Contact your GP or limb centre urgently.
  • If pain is unbearable or accompanied by fever, swelling, or colour change → call 999.
What should I do if I experience sudden severe pain in my residual limb?
  • Phantom pain and nerve pain are common, but sudden new severe pain could signal infection, poor circulation, or another issue.
  • Rest, remove the prosthesis, and check the skin.
  • Contact your GP or limb centre urgently.
  • If pain is unbearable or accompanied by fever, swelling, or colour change → call 999.
What if my residual limb becomes red, swollen, or blistered?
  • Remove the prosthesis to prevent further irritation.
  • Clean and dry the area gently.
  • If it’s minor, rest and monitor for 24–48 hours.
  • If redness worsens, the wound breaks, or swelling spreads → contact your GP or limb centre.
  • For signs of infection (heat, pus, fever), seek urgent medical care.
What if my wheelchair, crutches, or mobility aids break?
  • Always keep a backup aid if possible.
  • Many councils and NHS wheelchair services provide emergency repair numbers — keep these with you.
  • Some charities (e.g., British Red Cross) offer short-term equipment loans.
What if my prosthesis gets lost or stolen while travelling?
  • Use your backup mobility aid (crutches/wheelchair).
  • Contact your insurer and report the loss immediately.
  • Ask your limb centre if an emergency replacement or loan prosthesis is available.
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