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Instructions for use of you Juzo (stump shrinker)

JUZO

Juzo is the brand of stump shrinker we use here at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital Limb Fitting Centre

The stump shrinker you have been measured and supplied with is to help reduce and control any swelling present as a result of your amputation. It is also useful in preparing your residual limb for the use of a prosthesis (artificial limb).

When to wear your stump shrinker

  • Your stump shrinker should be worn during the day and taken off at night
  • If it feels uncomfortable, your stump shrinker can be worn for short periods of time, gradually increasing the amount of time worn, until you can tolerate wearing it from first thing in the morning till bedtime
  • When you first receive your prosthesis, your stump will need time to get used to the close fit of the socket. Hence, you will start by wearing the prosthesis for short periods during the day
  • When you are not wearing your prosthesis you should wear your stump shrinker in order to maintain the correct volume and continue the close fit feeling on your stump. So do not throw it away!
  • The stump shrinker should not be worn in place of a cotton or terry socks with your prosthesis

How to wear your stump shrinker

Above knee

Juzo above knee

Ensure that the stump shrinker is pulled right up into your groin and that there is no roll of flesh coming over the top.

Below knee

Juzo below knee

Ensure the stump shrinker is pulled right up your thigh. There should be no wrinkles or any loose or baggy material.

How long must I use the stump shrinker?

You should continue to wear your stump shrinker until you are wearing you prosthesis for all of the day.

Please ask your Prosthetist if you have any questions regarding length of wear.

Juzo washing instructions

  • Your stump shrinker should be washed daily if possible, or alternate days is acceptable
  • If your stump shrinker has velcro, ensure that the velcro fastening is closed
  • Machine wash on a Delicate Cycle at 40 degrees

OR

  • Hand wash with mild detergent, ensuring you rinse thoroughly and do not wring

Juzo drying process

  • Place on a thick towel, roll towel up tight and firm and press out any moisture
  • Line dry

Do not

  • Leave in a towel
  • Leave on a radiator
  • Dry in the sun
  • Dry clean
  • Tumble dry

Advantages of stump shrinkers after amputation

  • Helps to reduce swelling/oedema
  • Promotes healing
  • Helps shape the residual limb for prosthetic limb use

Before and after using stump shrinker

The biggest decrease in swelling of your residual limb occurs in the first year after the amputation and mostly in the first 3 – 4 months.

Juzo summary

WHEN TO WEAR IT

  • Only during the day
  • When not wearing your limb
  • Wrinkle-free. Pull it right on
  • Wash every night, or every second night – using a mild detergent

WHEN NOT TO WEAR IT

  • At night (unless specified by your Doctor)
  • Instead of a stump sock
  • If your stump pain increases
  • Over a bandaged stump
  • If you have an infection in your stump
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