In the United States alone, approximately 185,000 amputations occur each year, and 2 million people are living with limb loss. In recognition of Limb Loss Awareness Month, this article addresses common questions surrounding limb loss, from the reasons for amputation to returning to favorite activities following surgery.
An amputation is the surgical removal of part of the body, usually an arm or leg. There are three main reasons for amputation.
There are many different types of amputation. The easiest way to explain is to divide them into two categories, lower-limb and upper-limb.
Immediately following surgery, the focus is on healing the residual limb, which is paramount for long-term recovery goals. Healing of the wound at the amputation site typically occurs within 3-4 weeks. The scar takes significantly longer, approximately 12 to 18 months, to heal on the inside. Wound management during this early phase is very important to promote healing of the underlying soft tissue and to reduce the risk of infection. The goal is to maintain a soft, pliable tissue over the scar and shape it through compression to allow for a prosthesis and weight-bearing moving forward.
Coming to terms with the psychological impact of an amputation is often as important as coping with the physical effects. It’s very common to experience negative thoughts after an amputation, especially if it was done in an emergency situation without time to prepare for the effects of the surgery. Many people report feeling emotions of grief, similar to experiencing the death of a loved one. It is important to seek support from loved ones and professionals as needed to help in the process of emotional healing.
A prosthesis is an artificial limb that is created by a certified prosthetist. The parts vary depending on the level of amputation and the mobility of the user. The rehabilitation team collaborates to ensure that the prosthetic user has the most appropriate prosthetic components to allow for optimal mobility and activity.
Initially, pre-prosthetic training is conducted. This is the time period in which the wound is still healing. The interventions focus on residual limb management, positioning, maintenance of range of motion, strengthening, and functional transfer training.
Once the wound has healed, prosthetic training with a temporary prosthesis typically occurs. Interventions address range of motion, strength, balance, endurance, and mobility. Throughout this time, adjustments may be necessary to the temporary prosthesis in order to optimize comfort.
The overall goal of rehabilitation is to ensure safety and provide as much independence as possible while achieving the highest level of functional mobility.
Rehabilitation needs vary widely from person to person. The rehabilitation team will help the prosthetic user set realistic goals to achieve throughout his or her personal plan of care.
Most activities can be completed with the use of a prosthesis. It is best to discuss returning to these activities with a skilled therapist and prosthetist if there is any concern for safety. If the limb that is worn for daily use is unable to tolerate certain activities, there are specialty prosthetics designed for specific activities like swimming, cycling, snow skiing/boarding, and water skiing/boarding.
Sheltering Arms Institute offers a limb loss rehabilitation program with certified specialists in amputation recovery. To learn more, click below, or visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com/contact-us or call (804) 764-1000. please.
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