After a limb amputation, the patient goes through a recovery phase that includes stump treatments, physiotherapy sessions and psychological counseling, to better adapt to the new condition and find effective ways to overcome the changes and limitations of the amputation caused .
Generally, amputation of a member harms the daily life of the patient, however, it is possible to regain autonomy and live a life similar to the previous one, such as working, cleaning the house, cooking or exercising, for example.
- However.
- This recovery is slow and gradual and requires a lot of will of the patient to perform daily activities.
- Being necessary to relearn to walk with the use of supports such as crutches.
- Wheelchairs or prosthetics.
- After an amputation.
After amputation, the person must learn to live without a part of a limb, which usually impairs their body image and causes anger, sadness, and a feeling of disability, which can lead to isolation or even the development of depression, for example.
Therefore, having psychological support immediately after amputation is important, to help the patient accept the new body image. Psychologists can conduct individual or group sessions, focusing on the most positive aspects of a patient’s life, reinforcing them with praise, or sharing experiences, for example.
Phantom pain usually occurs after amputation surgery and, in most cases, these are repeated attacks of pain on the side of the amputated limb, as if it were still present. To manage phantom pain, you can:
This pain may appear shortly after surgery or over the years, forcing the person to learn how to manage pain with the help of pain technicians, so that they can lead a life similar to normal.
Amputation of a limb can perform all kinds of physical exercise, such as swimming, running or dancing, but you should make adjustments according to its limitations.
Physical exercise should be done at least 3 times a week, for at least 30 minutes and in addition to helping to maintain weight and strengthen muscles, it helps gain strength, which is essential to properly use walking supports, such as crutches.
In addition, physiotherapy sessions also complement the practice of physical exercise on the street or in the gym, as they contribute to greater mobility and balance.
Amputee should have a balanced and varied diet throughout its life, without special restrictions.
However, during the healing phase of the stump, it is essential to have a diet rich in healing foods, such as eating eggs, salmon or kiwi daily, for example, to keep the skin and tissue cells hydrated and healthy, facilitating healing and prevention. . More information: Healing foods.