Thanks to modern medical advances, many people are able to enjoy a higher quality of life better than ever before. Medical devices, such as prosthetic devices, have come a very long way since the dawn of human civilization (if you can believe it), and are only getting better by the day. That being said, where do prosthetic devices come from? 

Prosthetic devices are actually older than credit is given for. The earliest prosthetic devices are found in ancient Egypt, and Rome. Ancient Egyptians may actually be responsible for creating the first true prosthesis, a big wooden toe that belonged to a Noblewoman was found dating as far back as 950 BC! The toe was likely a cosmetic choice so the woman, even without a big toe, could still use and operate those prestigious sandals that human ancestors were known for. Although Ancient Egyptians may have the first true prosthesis, by far the most famous early prosthetic goes to General Marcus Sergius of Ancient Rome. Marcus is the first recorded human to have a prosthetic hand, his was an iron gauntlet that was constructed and fixed to his arm so he could still use a shield properly in battle. Marcus served as a general in the Roman military from 218 BC to 201 BC. It’s truly fascinating how creative people were when their medical knowledge and expertise weren’t anywhere close to where it is today.

The first true modern leaps in prosthetic devices and amputations were made by a man named Ambroise Paré. Ambroise helped introduce amputation as a life saving measure (around 1529) and among his other inventions created a kneeling peg leg with a fixed prosthetic foot and locking knee joint. These inventions shaped the future for prosthetics as known today. Though Ambroise Paré made advancements in the 1500s, it wasn’t until the 1900s that true modern prosthetic devices were fabricated. Modern prosthetic devices, instead of being made with wood, are made with a wide variety of materials including: acrylic resin, carbon fiber, thermoplastics, silicone, aluminum, and titanium. In addition to the materials, a wide variety of devices can also be made to fit almost any need. This includes: hands, legs, arms, feet, toes, fingers, eyes, etc. Of course, medical research still isn’t at a halt and improvements are being made to prosthetic devices every day.

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

COVID-19:  Our Commitment to our Employees, Referral Partners & Patients

Active Life is closely monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation and relying on guidance and updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).  Our primary concern is the well-being of our employees and patients through this health crisis and to provide a safe and healthy clinic environment.  At this time, our clinics remain open and are equipped to serve our patients and referral partners.  We anticipate minor adjustments to our service hours at some of our clinics, but rest assured our network of clinics throughout New Mexico and Arizona are doing their best to continue to serve the community.  Active Life is accredited by the American Board for Certification (www.abcop.com) and as such has existing policies in place regarding infection control and emergency preparedness and will modify these policies as required to comply with CDC recommendations.

Proactive Measures We Have Implemented:

• Requiring our staff members to take preventative measures recommended by the CDC to help stop the spread of the virus, including but not limited to washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding contact with others who are sick, and staying home if sick.
• Enhanced cleaning and sanitization of our clinic spaces and workspaces.
• Restricting non-essential employee travel, limiting non-essential visits to our clinics and encouraging virtual meetings.
• Heightened communication and screening of patients prior to scheduled or newly requested appointments to ensure the visit is considered safe for the patient, our staff and other patients who might visit our facility.  We are also asking patients to reschedule their appointment if they have recently traveled or who have had close contact with someone who has traveled to high risk countries or have tested positive or been exposed to someone with COVID-19.  Patients who have a fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing will also be asked to reschedule their appointments.
• To minimize risk of exposure to seniors and at-risk patients, we have created isolated appointment windows in various clinics for these patients.  “Drive-up” delivery options may also be available in certain locations for select device types.  

Active Life is committed to be a responsible provider of healthcare to its local communities and more updates will be provided as necessary regarding COVID-19 and our clinics.  If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact your local Active Life clinic.


Regards,

Jeanine Doty, RN, CPO
President
Active Life Orthotics and Prosthetics Corp

Lymphedema is a progressive disease that develops in stages. While all four stages listed below have distinct characteristics, please note that they are all continuous. 

Stage 0: Latent
Swelling is not always evident in this stage.  The stage may exist for months or years before edema becomes visible.

Stage 1: Mild/Reversible
Edema begins to show in this stage.  Pitting may occur.  This fluid may subside when the limb is elevated.

Stage 2: Moderate/Spontaneously Irreversible
At stage 2, limb elevation is rarely effective in reducing swelling.  Pitting can occur as well as possible fibrosis (hardening).
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Stage 3: Severe/Elephantiasis
No pitting will be present in this stage.  You may see wart-like growths and fat deposits.