For some who undergo an amputation, it can feel like the end of the world. So many things change so quickly that it can seem like the future is not one that you control.
But at Body In Motion, we know you can thrive after amputation because we help our patients do it every single day.
Today we’re going to explore three ways you can begin to thrive after your amputation and we’ll explore how each of these approaches might look for you no matter where you are in your amputation journey.
Find Your Own Way Of Moving Through The World
For those who are planning for a future amputation, there are many decisions to make, and even after an amputation occurs many of those choices remain.
Deciding what type of prosthetic works best for you, moving through consultations and sizings, and exploring the best ways to use your prosthetic are all key pieces of the puzzle.
The other is deciding how you want to think about your amputation and your prosthetic journey.
Adjusting to the changes that come along with amputation can be one of the most transformative challenges you face.
So, it’s essential that you find healthy and helpful ways to cope with those changes. Consider meditation, counseling, and anything else that allows you to process what you’ve gone through so that you can decide what you want your future to look like.
Choosing our own path forward is an amazing part of the recovery process.
Reach Out To People Who Have Been There Too
Some worry that life after amputation will be lonely. After all, it’s very likely that we might not know many people in our immediate family with an amputation. However, reaching out to those who have been where you are is a great way to turn that sense of loneliness into an empowered sense of community. Finding a local or online support group or social group for people with amputations and prosthetics can help you learn more about life beyond amputation and can allow you to create a trusted circle of friends who know what you’re going through.
Recommendations, tips, mindset shifts: All of these things can come as a result of finding those in your community (online or in-person) who know the road you’re traveling and are ready to travel that road alongside you.
Tap Into Your Support Team At Home And Beyond
While finding a supportive group of people with amputations is helpful, it’s also vital to connect with your treatment team and loved ones.
Your family or other loved ones may not know exactly what you're going through, but they do know you. When you return to your favorite or most meaningful activities and as you go on to pursue your goals and aspirations, they’ll be there to remind you of who you are as you face any challenges.
And don’t be afraid to let your doctor know how your prosthetic feels and if you experience any pain, discomfort, or other challenges when it comes to your prosthetic. It’s far better to address a small problem now than a larger one down the road. Whether it’s adjusting your prosthesis, applying hot or cold compresses to your limb, offering solutions for circulation or muscle stimulation, or connecting you with other healthcare providers to address your unique health challenges, your care team is there to help. Plus, when you collaborate with a trusted team like the one at Body In Motion, we’ll continue to check in with you so we’re always on the same page when it comes to your comfort and wellbeing.
What Does Thriving After Amputation Look Like For You?
Whether you want to return to daily tasks or are ready to tackle new challenges, thriving after amputation is possible and with the team at Body In Motion, your prosthetic experience can be one that allows you to continue to reach your goals.
To learn more about how we can help you make that happen, reach out to us here.