LOPS Defined
Published on Fri Oct 23, 2009
In general, Loss of Protective Sensation (LOPS) occurs when an individual is unable to sense or feel a minor injury or trauma that can occur from a variety of sources -- for example, if a patient unknowingly steps on an sharp or penetrating object, hits or scrapes his foot or lower extremity on an object, or even sustains a thermal injury from a heating pad or close proximity to a floor or space heater. Result: A patient with LOPS can develop a blister on the foot from wearing a shoe that is too tight or too loose. A corn or callous problem can cause an ulceration to develop beneath it due to the pressure placed on the underlying skin below. Bottom line: Whether there is a partial or complete loss of sensation or feeling, it will affect the patient's ability to feel pain in the foot and possibly the lower leg [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
