Dealing with Loss of a Limb

The amputation of a limb is a life-changing experience. It is not only a tremendous physical loss, but it can also be emotionally devastating as well. Everybody deals with these feelings in different ways. A key element to the mental, as well as the physical recovery process, is acceptance of the changes you will face in your life. Learning to accept change will help you to be emotionally healthy, enabling you to lead a  more fulfilling life.

• One thing to keep in mind is that it is not just the amputee that suffers. Family and friends will also struggle to cope with new feelings and anxiety.
• A key to getting back into life after amputation is to put things in perspective and deal with one thing at a time. Some individuals will feel like they have to constantly “prove” they can do things. This leads to additional stress and can be unhealthy.
• Enjoy the successes and accomplishments, no matter how small, and don’t dwell on obstacles or setbacks.
• Amputation can be particularly difficult to overcome for older adults and their families. Being older has already forced physical and mental limitations on many individuals, and the prospect of prolonged rehabilitation can seem overwhelming.
• In most cases, your active lifestyle can be restored with an appropriate prosthetic device.