The Process of Rehabilitation After Limb Amputation
Recovering after traumatic injuries can be a long and strenuous process, especially for accidental limb amputation. After such a horrific event, patients not only need to get used to living without their arm or leg but also may need to learn how to function with a prosthesis. The rehabilitation process is slightly different depending on the limb amputated, but there are some commonalities in adjusting to life post-limb amputation, regardless of the body part.
In this entry, we'll go through the basics of post-limb amputation recovery.
What happens after a leg has been amputated?
Let's first take a look at leg amputations since they are more common. After the procedure, doctors often fit patients with artificial legs, also known as lower-limb prostheses. The component may consist of thigh, leg, foot, toes, and knee units for above-the-knee amputations.
In newer prosthetics, microprocessors help control movement, and many models are myoelectric-powered—in other words, they are powered by electrical signals generated by the body's muscles. There are also prostheses containing bionic components that allow patients to control their movements with greater precision.
Rehabilitation comprises general conditioning exercises, including stretching the knee and hip to strengthen muscles. The person undergoing rehab is also encouraged to initiate balancing and standing exercises using parallel bars whenever possible. The patient may also require endurance exercises. Overall, the recovery program depends on the extent of the amputation and the number of limbs amputated.
What happens after an arm has been amputated?
When it comes to arm amputations, most patients receive artificial arms, or upper-limb prostheses. It may include a forearm, fingers, hooks or hands, and wrist units, as well as shoulder and elbow units for above-the-elbow amputations. Shoulder muscles control the movement of hands or hooks. Hooks are generally more practical, but most patients prefer the appearance of a hand.
Recovery also consists of general conditioning exercises. Patients also need to stretch the elbow and shoulder to strengthen the muscles. Endurance exercises are also quite common. Again, the specific recovery program depends on the extent of the amputation and the number of limbs amputated.
Residual limb care
Regardless of the type of amputation, patients must learn how to take care of their residual limb. For instance, since leg prostheses are only intended for walking, they should be removed before bedtime. Before going to bed, inspect the residual limb thoroughly, wash it with warm water and mild soap, dry it, and then dust it using talcum powder.
Here are some common problems associated with residual limbs and how they should be treated:
Excessive sweating – Apply a scent-free antiperspirant.
Dry skin – Apply petrolatum or lanolin to the affected residual limb area.
Broken skin – Remove the prosthesis, wait for the wound to heal, and seek medical attention.
Inflamed skin – Get rid of the irritant and apply a low-potency corticosteroid ointment or talcum powder.
Pain caused by skin wearing away or an infection – Massage may help, but it's best to see a doctor.
Speed up your recovery
Recovering after a lost limb is a long haul. Fortunately, the process can be significantly easier with the help of amputation rehabilitation professionals. They offer expert guidance every step of the way, making the recovery less daunting.
If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, lea
rning to walk, unweighting aquatic therapy, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073.