Going through an amputation can be an overwhelming and traumatic experience, and one you may not have the opportunity to prepare for. Whilst it may be difficult to think what life may look like for you when you leave the hospital, it is important to know that most amputees can live a fulfilled life and there are multiple ways to adapt to live your life to the fullest. If you, or a family member, have had an amputation, it can be difficult to know what you need to consider when you leave the hospital, so we have listed our top tips to help adjust to the changes in your life.
Rest and take it easy
Amputation is a major surgery that will require a long recovery process. Make sure you allow yourself to recover by following the post-amputation programme given by your doctors. Attend any appointments for physio or physical therapy, as this will help you adjust and build strength to adjust to your new life. Your lifestyle habits are just as important when you are recovering. You can help your recovery by having good sleep patterns, a healthy diet, and no smoking or drinking. As much as you want to try to resume some normality, it is important to not rush your recovery.
Get to know your prosthetic
Your prosthetic is an expensive piece of equipment which is tailored specifically for you. It is important that you know how to look after it, and how to use it correctly. There are different types of prosthetics, so it is important to research the different types to see which you prefer, considering your activity levels and daily needs. A prosthetic should not be uncomfortable or cause any pain. If you have a prosthetic which does not feel right, you must raise this with your prosthetist. It is important to know the signs of wear and tear, and when things need to be replaced.
Pay attention to your residual limb
Regularly inspect and check your residual limb and report any changes to your doctor. It isn’t uncommon for the amputated area to become infected, which could lead to sepsis, so it is important that you know the early signs and to spot any redness. It is common for amputees to experience phantom sensation in the absent limb. Phantom pain can be managed by a variety of treatments and medication. If you experience this, talk to your doctor who can work out the best pain management solution.
Prepare your home
You may need to use certain equipment at home to support you during the months it takes to adjust to your amputation, and potentially for longer. This may include items such as a wheelchair, a bath seat, grab rails, or raised toilet seats. In some cases, it may be necessary to have your home adapted, for example by widening doorways, lowering sinks and cabinets, or replacing doorknobs with lever handles. If you live in a multi-storey property, you may also wish to consider moving to a smaller or more accessible home to help manage costs and mobility. Think carefully about what changes are needed to make your home as accessible and comfortable as possible.
Driving after amputation
Driving after amputation is possible, but you must tell the DVLA if you have had a limb amputated. When getting back into driving after an amputation, consider what adaptations you may need. There are numerous adaptations that can be made to make driving accessible including a hand-operated accelerator and brake controls, steering aids, pedal extensions, and transfer seats and swivel chairs. If you are purchasing a new vehicle, practice getting in and out of the car, consider if you will be wearing a prosthetic leg or not, and check if a wheelchair can fit in the boot. You will also be able to get a blue badge which allows closer parking with more space.
Understand your emotions
Amputation is a lifechanging surgery, and it is normal to feel a range of emotions. People go through different stages throughout recovery, which usually are disbelief, anger, depression and acceptance. Prioritise self-care and your recovery and only push yourself to do things you are comfortable with. If you are struggling to adapt and come to terms with this change, then consider speaking to a therapist.
Connect with other amputees
It is recommended to seek support from others who have similar disabilities to prevent feelings of isolation. Your friends and family may not completely understand how you feel, but it is important to openly communicate about your feelings and needs so they can best support you. Sometimes taking the first step to reconnect can help break the initial discomfort. Reach out to charities, such as the Limbless Association, to meet others who have had similar experiences and may been feeling the same way.
Find enjoyment through hobbies and sports
Life may not look the way it used to, but having hobbies will help your sense of identity, as well as your mental health. You may find you can do hobbies or sports the same as before, but others may need to be adapted for your specific needs. Most sports can be adapted, such as wheelchair basketball, hand cycling, and wheelchair tennis.
Maintain positivity
It is hard to adjust when you can no longer do things you previously had done with ease, but it is important to be kind to yourself. Keep your goals realistic to avoid disappointment and seek inspiration from amputee public figures. Most amputees live a full and active life; it is possible for everyone. Amputation does not mean you can no longer be the person you were before.
How we can help
If your amputation was caused through negligence, it is important to start your claim early. The time limit to bring an amputation claim is 3 years. Claims can go on for a very long time, so starting your claim earlier can help you receive much needed funds sooner. Research firms that specialise in amputation claims and get in contact to get initial advice about your claim.
At Enable Law, we specialise in supporting people who have suffered serious and catastrophic injuries. Our specialist medical negligence and personal injury solicitors can help if you or a loved one has had an amputation as the result of someone else’s negligence. Whether the amputation was due to mismanaged medical care, a traumatic event such as a car crash, or any other incident where someone else was at fault, our solicitors can advise on whether you have a claim. Our aim is to secure the best possible support for you, enabling you to live as full and independent a life as possible, and to ensure that the necessary funding is in place to pay for it.
To speak to a member of our team contact us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can arrange to call you at a time convenient to you.
