The long recovery from a limb amputation

You will likely never forget the accident and the horrifying results. Whether the amputation occurred at the scene of the incident or the extensive injuries gave doctors no choice but to surgically remove the limb, you are undoubtedly struggling with many emotions and fears about your future.

Recovery from surgery is only the beginning of the road ahead. You may be comforted to hear that many people who experience the amputation of a limb are able to adjust and even excel in many areas. However, at this point, you are likely having difficulty just dealing with the confusion and questions about what to expect.

Your new best friend

The most important person in your life, at least for the foreseeable future, may be your physical therapist. Your therapist will assist you in the healing and strengthening process as well as helping you learn to use your new prosthesis. Your therapist will help you in the following areas:

• Minimizing the possibility of blisters, irritation and swelling at the site of the injury
• Preventing the scarring from becoming tight and inflexible
• Helping you manage the maintenance of your limb sock and prosthesis liner
• Teaching you how to put on and remove your prosthesis
• Showing you the best ways to care for your affected limb

Of course, one of the most important areas in which a therapist will help you is in learning how to use your prosthesis. For example, if you have lost a leg, your therapist will help you form a natural gait when you walk and teach you how to safely navigate stairs and inclines. You may also need to strengthen the muscles that help your prosthesis to function; for example, the back and hips will help you if you have lost a leg.

Keeping a positive outlook

You can expect to take a long time relearning to do tasks you may have taken for granted. For instance, if your hand or arm was injured in an accident, you may have to learn alternate methods to dress yourself and perform other household tasks. You may have an occupational therapist visit your home and show you safe ways to use appliances and navigate bathrooms.

Undoubtedly, you are likely to have times when you will feel overwhelmed with frustration, but your positive attitude and the assistance of loving family and friends can make a difference in your recovery. Whether your amputation resulted from a work injury or a Texas motor vehicle accident, you have the right to seek every available option to help you recover and adjust to your new life. This may not be easy, so seeking legal assistance may be the best way to obtain the most positive results for your circumstances.