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Amputee invents custom sleeves

Shared by Ana Duarte on 2016-05-24 20:50

About the solution

“I knew that whatever was coming would never replace what I had lost,” explained Kurt, who is also a certified prosthetist. “I learned early on that what I needed was something to help me get around easier and back to a somewhat normal life. I was not looking to replace, imitate or recreate the leg I had lost; I just wanted to be able to get around pain-free.”

Kurt felt that the traditional sleeves couldn’t really match the tone of the skin color, and they were always getting dirty. Plus, this made people always look at Kurt’s prosthetics. So, he decided to create his own sleeves, to help people feel more comfortable around amputees.

The inventor now supplies prosthetists and amputees with slip-on covers for prosthetic sockets in patterned stretch fabric, but his socket covers are also used in a laminating process that adheres the fabric permanently to the socket. Clients have a wide variety of patterns to choose from, including patriotic flags, flowers and other patterns.
“Years later, there are 70 styles for all tastes, and not a single day goes by without someone stopping me in amazement at how great my leg looks,” said Kurt. “It somehow seems to change peoples’ lives, both amputee and nonamputee”.

More info: http://fredslegs.com/

Adapted from: http://www.amputee-coalition.org/resources/the-big-cover-up/

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This solution shall not include mention to the use of drugs, chemicals or biologicals (including food); invasive devices; offensive, commercial or inherently dangerous content. This solution was not medically validated. Proceed with caution! If you have any doubts, please consult with a health professional.

DISCLAIMER: This story was written by someone who is not the author of the solution, therefore please be advised that, although it was written with the utmost respect for the innovation and the innovator, there can be some incorrect statements. If you find any errors please contact the patient Innovation team via info@patient-innovation.com

About the author

Kurt “Fred” Pauloz, born in the USA, is an amputee since he was 18. He invented FredLegs, in the 90s, custom prosthetic sleeve covers because of his need to wear a sleeve he liked.
He went on to create his own business – FredLegs, which manufactures SleeveArt®.

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