Real Life Prosthetics

09/01/2026

Let’s talk about it…
Changing shoes can affect your prosthetic fit. How do you manage it?

08/31/2026

Q: What is the role of suspension in a prosthesis?

A: Suspension is a crucial part of a prosthesis that keeps it securely attached to your residual limb, ensuring comfort, stability, and safe movement. The right suspension system can make a big difference in how your prosthesis feels and performs.

Common types include:
• Suction suspension: Uses a tight seal and a passive suction valve to hold the prosthesis in place. It offers excellent stability and a natural feel but may require precise fit and maintenance.
• Pin-lock systems: A liner with a distal pin locks into the prosthetic socket. This system is easy to use, reliable, and provides secure attachment as well as easy detachment for daily activities.
• Vacuum-assisted suspension: Actively removes air from the socket to create suction. This improves comfort, reduces skin movement, and enhances limb volume control.
• Other options: Some prostheses may use belts, sleeves, or hybrid systems depending on your limb shape, activity, and comfort needs.

At Real Life Prosthetics, our clinical team works closely with you to evaluate your residual limb, activity goals, and lifestyle to select the suspension system that maximizes comfort, mobility, and safely. We tailor each prosthesis so you can move confidently and comfortably in all aspects of your life.

08/25/2026

Let’s talk about it…
Water sports are possible with the right prosthetic. What’s your favorite activity?

08/24/2026

Q: Can I use a prosthesis for sports or high-impact activities?

A: Absolutely. Prosthetic devices can be customized to support athletics, running, and other high-impact recreational activities and the right choice depends on your activity goals, mobility level, and K-level classification.

For example:
• K3 users may benefit from energy-storing feet or components designed to provide stability and support for walking, light jogging, or recreational sports.
•K4 users who want to return to running, competitive sports, or high-impact activities can choose from specialized running blades, dynamic response feet, or athletic components designed for performance, speed, and shock absorption.

At Real Life Prosthetics, our clinical team works closely with each patient, listening to your goals and evaluating your strength, balance, and lifestyle. We then select components that allow you to live safely, perform confidently, and get back to the activities you love whether that’s running on trails, cycling, or playing recreational sports.

08/21/2026

We’re excited to welcome Christopher J. Michalowski, CPO/LPO, to the Real Life Prosthetics team!

With more than 35-years of experience in orthotics and prosthetics, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and genuine passion for helping people regain mobility, confidence, and independence. Chris began his career at A.I. DuPont Hospital in 1992 and went on to complete his orthotics and prosthetics education through Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center in Chicago. As an ABC-certified prosthetist-orthotist, he has dedicated his career to helping patients achieve their goals and get back to the activities and life they value.

Chris will be serving patients throughout our Delaware clinics, bringing his experience and patient-centered approach to the communities we serve throughout New Castle County. For Chris, successful patient care goes beyond providing a device. It’s about listening, building trust, and working together.

Please join us in giving Chris a warm welcome to Real Life Prosthetics! We’re grateful to have his experience and dedication as part of our team!

Welcome to the RLP family, Chris!

08/19/2026

We’re excited to celebrate Olivia Slaughter, CPO, who was recently recognized as a nominee in Upper Chesapeake Women to Watch!

Olivia’s journey with Real Life Prosthetics began in 2021, when she joined us as a resident. Over the course of her residency, she grew as a clinician, built meaningful relationships with patients and our team, and developed the skills and confidence to take the next step in her career. She went on to successfully complete her residency, sit for her boards, and became an ABC-certified prosthetist-orthotist.

Olivia became an important part of the Real Life Prosthetics family, and we’re incredibly proud to see her accomplishments recognized. This nomination is a wonderful reflection of her dedication, talent, and commitment to the patients she serves.

While we certainly miss having Olivia here with us, we’re excited to see what this next chapter brings as she continues her career in the Carolinas. We know she will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves!

Congratulations, Olivia! We’re proud of you and will be cheering you on from up North! 🦾



https://issuu.com/apgchesapeake/docs/women_2_watch_upper_chesapeake_2026_where_comfort?ff

08/18/2026

Let’s talk about it…
Rehab and prosthetics go hand-in-hand. How has integrated care helped you?

08/17/2026

Q: How do prosthetic liners work?

A: Prosthetic liners are an important interface between your residual limb and your prosthesis. They cushion the limb, reduce friction, protect the skin, and improve suspension, helping your prosthesis fit comfortably and securely. Liners come in different materials and designs:

• Gel liners are soft, flexible, and provide excellent cushioning. They help absorb impact, reduce pressure points, and improve comfort, especially for users with sensitive skin or higher activity levels. They may be made of silicone, thermoplastic, or other materials.

While most patients will use a gel liner, not every patient will; it depends on your body and what will work best for you. At Real Life Prosthetics, our clinical team evaluates your limb, activity goals, and suspension needs to select the liner that best enhances comfort, safety, and mobility for your unique situation.

08/13/2026

Planning your next trip? ✈️ Here’s a helpful blog with travel trips and information specifically for amputees. A great resource to save and share!

Last time I flew, TSA asked me to remove my shoes.
As an amputee, I knew I didn’t have to. so I said "No".
That moment reminded me how many disabled travelers don’t know their rights… and how stressful flying can be when you don’t.

After years of navigating airports with a prosthetic, I’ve learned the hacks, shortcuts, and rules that make travel so much easier.
I put them all in one guide so you can fly with confidence.

✈️ Read it here → https://adaptiveamputees.com/blogs/air-travel-as-an-amputee?rq=travel

Amplitude Media Group Amputee Coalition

08/11/2026

Let’s talk about it…
Poor prosthetic fit can lead to issues. How do you know when to seek help?