Facing an amputation can be daunting. You feel alone, like no one can relate. You feel less of a person, not whole. You may have never even heard of prosthetics, or know another amputee. But, you are not alone.

Many people are, and have been, in your “shoes”. It’s not the end. There is hope and there are choices that can be made to get you back to living your life.

Many questions are normal ones. What do I do now? How long before I walk again? WILL I ever walk again? Will I be able to do the things that I used to do? All these questions are normal, and there are people and places that are there to assist you.

STEP ONE in an amputee’s road to recovery is get your questions answered. A nurse, doctor or amputee counselor can guide you. It’s the first step to prepare you for the work ahead. Talking with a counselor opens the door to healing emotionally, allowing you to then focus on moving forward.

STEP TWO is to find a prosthetic team that will assist you in this journey. This should include a Prosthetist, a prosthetic facility and possibly a physical therapist. Contrary to beliefs, not all prosthetists and prosthetic facilities are equal. Your goal is to find someone that learns about you and your lifestyle. One who will work with you to create a highly customized artificial limb specifically for you. It is about CHOICES. You have a CHOICE and can choose your prosthetic facility.

As time goes by, wearing your prosthesis will become simply a normal part of your daily routine. Of course, your body and your life are always changing. If your prosthesis is causing pain, or if you are at a point when you can’t wear your prosthesis, you need to be in contact with your Prosthetist to examine the issues. Just remember, your prosthetics team is there to help you when you need them.

Becoming an amputee isn’t something that you asked for, it’s just something that has happened. Working together, with the right team, you can get back to living your life...and there are people out there that can help you.

Editor’s Note: This article was written by Kim Duckett, Certified Prosthetist and Certified Amputee Counselor for Fourroux Prosthetics. For more information you may call 888‐810‐6220, or visit the website at www.fourroux.com.