Amputee Mobility

Overcoming Limb Loss: Embracing Challenges and Rediscovering Life
Coping with Loss: A Journey of Resilience

Coping with loss can be a challenging journey, especially for those who have undergone amputation surgery or have recently experienced limb loss. It’s important to acknowledge the emotional and physical challenges that come with rehabilitation. Although reclaiming your old life may seem daunting, it is vital to remember that living a fulfilling life is still possible.

It is normal to go through a period of grief and emotional stress after amputation. Repressing these feelings can impede your progress. Allow yourself time to process and move forward.

Each amputee’s experience is unique, but you are not alone in this journey. Rehabilitation can be a challenging process that may include obstacles and setbacks. It’s natural to feel like giving up at times, but remember this is a journey. Keep challenging yourself, and with each small victory, you can accomplish any goal you set.

Personal Care: Taking Care of Your Residual Limb

When it comes to personal care, paying attention to the hygiene of your residual limb is crucial, especially since it will be in close contact with a prosthesis. Follow these guidelines to ensure proper care:

  • Wash your residual limb daily using a mild or anti-bacterial soap. This helps keep it clean and reduces the risk of infection.
  • Rinse off any soap residue carefully and make sure to dry thoroughly. Moisture can lead to skin problems, so keeping it dry is essential.
  • Avoid using oils, creams, or talcum powder on your residual limb unless your clinical prosthetist specifically advises it. These substances may interfere with the fit and function of your prosthesis.
  • Change your stump socks daily to maintain cleanliness and prevent excessive sweating.
  • Inspect the residual limb every day, and more frequently if you experience any discomfort. Utilize a hand mirror to examine all areas.
  • If you notice any skin loss, soreness, or signs of infection (such as redness or swelling), contact a clinical prosthetist as soon as possible. They will provide appropriate guidance and treatment.

Remember, a healthy and cared-for limb can make a significant difference in your daily life.

Protect and Strengthen: Caring for Your Body Without a Limb

Taking care of your back, hips, knees, and shoulders is crucial to maintain good overall health, especially if you’re missing a limb. While the absence of a limb can present specific challenges, it can also lead to additional physical problems if not addressed properly.

For individuals with conditions like decreased circulation or ill-fitting prosthetic sockets, extra care is needed to prevent complications such as skin breakdown, infection, and the possibility of further amputation. Mobility on the affected side may be impaired, leading to overuse, compensatory movements, or repetitive injuries in other parts of the body.

Caring for Your Back: Preventing Problems with Proper Walking and Posture

Preventing back problems is essential. For individuals with lower extremity amputation, trunk stabilization and strength are even more critical. A strong and stable back is less likely to sustain injuries. Wheelchair users can also experience back problems due to static trunk positioning, which can cause muscle tightness.

The back often compensates for irregular leg motion during walking, which can increase stress and lead to injuries. Proper prosthesis fitting and gait training with a physiotherapist are crucial to minimize these effects. Maintaining an erect posture and engaging in trunk muscle stretching can help prevent back problems. Exercises that strengthen stomach and back muscles are also beneficial.

Managing Hip & Knee Problems: Proper Walking and Exercises

Lower extremity amputees may experience hip or knee pain due to poor walking patterns or prolonged positioning. Swinging the prosthetic leg unnaturally or avoiding weight on the residual limb can cause injuries. Proper walking techniques and equal weight distribution are key to reducing hip and knee pain.

Physiotherapy focuses on gait training and muscle balance to enhance stability and control. For wheelchair users, range-of-motion exercises can help alleviate joint soreness and tightness.

Managing Shoulder Pain: Understanding and Addressing Causes

Shoulder problems can arise from overuse and repetitive motions. For upper extremity amputees, increased use of the sound limb or prosthesis can contribute to discomfort. Stretching, strengthening, and stabilizing shoulder muscles, especially the rotator cuff, are essential to manage pain. Progressive exercise programs and frequent breaks during activities can also help reduce discomfort.

Keeping Joints Pain-Free: Active Exercise and Balance

Joint pain can be managed or prevented through exercises that focus on balance, strength, and flexibility. Gradually increasing activity levels and targeting specific areas experiencing pain can help reduce discomfort and promote joint health. Consult a doctor or physiotherapist for a personalized treatment plan to address your needs.

Mobility: Crutches and Wheelchairs

Crutches can be beneficial for leg amputees, even after receiving an artificial limb. They provide support when the prosthesis is uncomfortable or requires repair. Two main types of crutches are available: the conventional underarm crutch and the elbow crutch. Your physiotherapist will help you select and use the appropriate type.

Wheelchairs are essential for all lower limb amputees, not just those unable to wear a prosthetic. Stump supports and home modifications, such as ramps, may also be necessary. If you need a wheelchair or home modifications, consult your Limb Centre, hospital, or GP. For accident-related amputations, contact your ACC Case Manager for assistance.

Our main goals

Advancements in artificial limb technology have revolutionized the lives of amputees, offering opportunities for enhanced mobility and independence. This exploration focuses on key objectives to ensure that individuals with prosthetic limbs receive the support and resources necessary for fulfilling lives.
Amputee Guide
Artificial Limbs

Exploring artificial limbs: enhancing lives, overcoming challenges, and fostering independence.

Phantom Limb

Understanding and adapting to phantom limb sensations for amputees.

Amputee Mobility

Promoting independence and mobility for amputees through advanced prosthetic solutions.

Benefits & Assistance

Navigating financial aid and support services for amputees, focusing on benefits and assistance programs.

Sport & Recreation

Promoting active lifestyles for amputees through sports, physical activities, and recreational opportunities.

Caring For Yourself

Guidance on self-care for amputees, covering limb hygiene, prosthesis care, and joint health.

Children & Teens

Supporting children and teens with limb differences: emotional, educational, and social guidance for growth and inclusion.

Employment

Enhancing employment prospects for amputees through support, rights protection, and tailored services.

Amputee Support
Coping with Loss

Addressing emotional healing and adaptation for amputees coping with limb loss.

Support Networks

Building community and offering peer support for amputees through regional societies and social networks.

Societies

Connecting amputees across New Zealand through supportive regional societies and resources.

Artificial Limbs

Enhancing amputee lives through artificial limbs: adaptation, comfort, and mobility.

Amputee Support

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