$104 for a single stocking!

For the last few weeks, I’ve been waking in the middle of the night (as men of a certain age do) to find my “shrinker” has come off.

What on earth is a shrinker?

A shrinker is a compression stocking I’ve been wearing since my lower right leg amputation halfway through last year. These stockings are designed to reduce swelling and shape my stump so it fits more easily into my prosthetic leg.

In the lead-up to getting my first prosthetic leg, I wore a shrinker a lot. I could see the difference as my stump transformed into a more conical shape. Additionally, I’ve read that a shrinker helps with circulation, promoting healing.

However, in the last few months, my nightly use has eased off a bit because the stocking has started to slip off.

As I await news from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) about my new permanent prosthetic, my focus is now on preparing for the new limb, which will be both lighter and thinner. Hopefully, as we approach the colder months, I’ll be able to wear long pants over the prosthetic limb.

Numerous people have told me there could be significant pain transitioning from my current prosthetic to the new one.

An interstate colleague, who is a double-amputee, shared in an email:

“I am currently being fitted and trialing my left ‘forever leg.’ You get one when the stump stops shrinking (usually 18 months). It’s a painful process due to the tight fitting, with lots of adjustments and blisters.”

I don’t know if I’ll have a similar experience, better or worse, but I’m gearing up. That’s why I decided it was time for some tighter shrinkers. I also thought it was worth writing this post, as it’s something new amputees might need to know about. Many of my non-amputee friends and family have found the idea of a “shrinker” absolutely fascinating, and maybe you do too?

They’re reasonably expensive at $104 each, but the NDIS will cover the cost, and it will hopefully be well worth it in the end,