Re: Cosmetics (Opinion)
Christina Skoski M.D.
Description
Collection
Title:
Re: Cosmetics (Opinion)
Creator:
Christina Skoski M.D.
Date:
7/21/2009
Text:
Thank you Al Pike!!
I too am concerned about the lack of understanding and skill on the
part of some prosthetists regarding the issue of cosmetics. In the
push for ever more hi tech components it is becoming the norm to go
without a cover. Granted, for those young male (and female)
amputees, if this is their choice, go for it. However, as a woman, I
do not wish to present myself to the world looking like a comic book
action hero.
Of course, function comes first, but in the rush to push technology,
I think sometimes the profession doesn't realize the importance of
the emotional and psychological impact looking down and seeing a
leg can make in one's body image and self esteem. Back in 1962,
when I received my first carved wooden leg, I cried. It was a crude
but serviceable leg. At least an attempt was made to make it look
human, and I could go back to school feeling semi comfortable about
my appearance. The covers since then have improved greatly. I am
under no delusion that mine looks like a real leg, but it's darn
close. I feel sorry for the gals, young or old who, having survived
whatever trauma to loose their limb, are faced with having to go out
in public with nothing but a pylon and an athletic shoe
attached. This is a fashion disaster. One's personal appearance is
a valid issue.
I have on occasion gone without a cosmetic cover. As a transpelvic
amputee, I'm dealing with 3 joints. I can tell you from experience
this can be hazardous to your remaining limbs. I get my fingers
pinched, it destroys your clothes, leaves dings and dents in my car,
and you cannot cross your legs. The only clothing that works are
loose, flowing long skirts (a hemi burka!). I consider myself a very
well adjusted amputee but I do not like having to put up with the
stares and stupid comments from strangers in public. It's annoying
and gets old fast.
I thank my prosthetists for the care they have put into making my leg
acceptable to me. Like Al, I guess I'm old school, but as I like to
say...for an old broad with one leg, I look adorable. Just my 2 cents.
Sincerely yours,
Christina Skoski MD
www.hphdhelp.org
<Email Address Redacted>
I too am concerned about the lack of understanding and skill on the
part of some prosthetists regarding the issue of cosmetics. In the
push for ever more hi tech components it is becoming the norm to go
without a cover. Granted, for those young male (and female)
amputees, if this is their choice, go for it. However, as a woman, I
do not wish to present myself to the world looking like a comic book
action hero.
Of course, function comes first, but in the rush to push technology,
I think sometimes the profession doesn't realize the importance of
the emotional and psychological impact looking down and seeing a
leg can make in one's body image and self esteem. Back in 1962,
when I received my first carved wooden leg, I cried. It was a crude
but serviceable leg. At least an attempt was made to make it look
human, and I could go back to school feeling semi comfortable about
my appearance. The covers since then have improved greatly. I am
under no delusion that mine looks like a real leg, but it's darn
close. I feel sorry for the gals, young or old who, having survived
whatever trauma to loose their limb, are faced with having to go out
in public with nothing but a pylon and an athletic shoe
attached. This is a fashion disaster. One's personal appearance is
a valid issue.
I have on occasion gone without a cosmetic cover. As a transpelvic
amputee, I'm dealing with 3 joints. I can tell you from experience
this can be hazardous to your remaining limbs. I get my fingers
pinched, it destroys your clothes, leaves dings and dents in my car,
and you cannot cross your legs. The only clothing that works are
loose, flowing long skirts (a hemi burka!). I consider myself a very
well adjusted amputee but I do not like having to put up with the
stares and stupid comments from strangers in public. It's annoying
and gets old fast.
I thank my prosthetists for the care they have put into making my leg
acceptable to me. Like Al, I guess I'm old school, but as I like to
say...for an old broad with one leg, I look adorable. Just my 2 cents.
Sincerely yours,
Christina Skoski MD
www.hphdhelp.org
<Email Address Redacted>
Citation
Christina Skoski M.D., “Re: Cosmetics (Opinion),” Digital Resource Foundation for Orthotics and Prosthetics, accessed November 6, 2024, https://library.drfop.org/items/show/230491.
